James Samuel Fritzler, 85, passed away on May 27, 2020 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas. He was born on November 16, 1934 in Ness City, Kansas, the son of Sam and Freda (Sauer) Fritzler.
Jim was a 1953 graduate of Ness City High School, a member of the United Methodist Church, Ness City, and a United States Army Veteran. After returning home in 1956 from service in Germany, Jim worked for his father at Fritzler’s IGA grocery store until he decided to pursue farming and ranching full time. On October 27, 1957, Jim married the love of his life, Ila Jones, in Ness City, Kansas and they were happily married for 62 years. Together they raised two sons and spent a lifetime supporting Ness County historic preservation, development and numerous activities.
A sincere man with firm beliefs, Jim was never idle and had a talent for cooking, gardening and storytelling. He found great joy in his family and strong faith as well as the many traditions he shared will be carried on for generations to come.
Jim is survived by his wife, Ila; sons, Paul Fritzler and his wife, Dianna (Parker, CO, and Kelly Fritzler and his wife, Laurie (Paonia, CO); sister, Betty Benson (San Antonio, TX); and three granddaughters, Haley Rabson, Lauren Fritzler, and Carsyn Fritzler. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 3, 2020, 4:00 PM, at the United Methodist Church, Ness City, Kansas. Inurnment will immediately follow at the Ness City Cemetery. Friends may call Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness City, Kansas, 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Thursday, July 2, 2020 to sign the book.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Ness County Bank Building Foundation.