In honor of Frank Fritz, the beloved former star of American Pickers, his friends are planning a motorcycle run to celebrate his life following his death on September 30.
The 60-year-old Iowa native had been battling health issues after suffering a serious stroke in 2022. For over a decade, Fritz was known for his expertise in hunting down rare antiques, vintage motorcycles, and nostalgic toys on American Pickers. After leaving the show, he pursued his passion by opening an antique store, Frank Fritz Finds, in Savanna, Illinois.
When Will Frank Fritz’s Life Be Celebrated?
According to CBS News, which spoke with Annette Oberlander, a close friend of Frank Fritz, his celebration of life motorcycle run is anticipated to take place in the spring.
Is a New Episode of American Pickers Airing?
A fresh episode of American Pickers aired on Wednesday on the History Channel, showcasing a unique billboard of Evel Knievel’s rocket-powered Snake Canyon jump. New episodes from Season 26 of American Pickers will continue to air on Wednesdays on the History Channel.
What Did Mike Wolfe Share About the New American Pickers Episode?
In the latest Season 26 episode of American Pickers, Mike Wolfe took a moment on Instagram to honor his longtime co-star, Frank Fritz. Wolfe revealed that the episode—and the entire season—was dedicated to Frank’s memory.
“Although the timing with Frank’s passing is incredibly hard, we’ve been making the show without him for four years,” Wolfe wrote. “We always wished he could come back, but unfortunately, his health kept him from doing so.” He went on to say, “Whenever we were in Iowa, we’d make a point to visit Frank, letting him know how much he was missed and how no one could ever replace him. We’re putting everything we’ve got into each episode, hoping to do right by him and make him proud.”
Where Can You Find Frank Fritz Obituary?
On October 2, Legacy.com released an obituary for Frank Fritz, which also included several social media tributes celebrating his life both on and off the show.
What Happened to Frank Fritz?
Frank Fritz, beloved for his dark beard, warm smile, and deep love of vintage motorcycles, passed away on September 30 while in hospice care in Davenport. He had struggled with his health since suffering a stroke over two years ago, which, compounded by the severity of his Crohn’s disease, led to further complications, according to friends. He was 60 years old.
His death was confirmed by his longtime friend and American Pickers co-star, Mike Wolfe, who shared on Instagram that he was by Fritz’s side “when he took one last journey home.”
“I’ve known Frank for more than half my life, and what you saw on TV was the same as who he was in real life—a dreamer with a heart full of sensitivity and humor,” Wolfe wrote. “Frank was the same off-camera as he was on, and he had a unique way of touching the hearts of so many just by being himself.”
The Conservatorship of Frank Fritz
- Following Frank Fritz’s stroke in August 2022, a conservatorship was put in place to manage his affairs. MidWestOne Bank was assigned to handle his finances, including overseeing his collections and investments to ensure they generate income.
- Frank’s longtime friend, Chris Davis, took on the role of his guardian, providing crucial support in daily life. Chris helps Frank with everything from managing his Crohn’s disease treatment to navigating physical therapy, meal prep, and other essential tasks.
- The conservatorship also made arrangements to help revitalize Frank’s antique shop, Frank Fritz Finds, ensuring it remains stocked and operational.