In Memory of John Fritsche

John E. Fritsche, 73, of Swansea, IL, born October 31, 1951, in East St. Louis, IL, passed away Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville, IL.

Instead of floral arrangements, the Fritsche family is kindly requesting monetary donations to aid in the strain of long-term medical bills and expenses. We greatly appreciate your kind words and support during this difficult time.

Obituary Info:

John attended St. Augustine Catholic Grade School in Belleville, IL and was a graduate from Althoff Catholic Highschool. He was very athletic and played baseball there, taking pride in contributing to the team winning the State Championship in 1969. John was a graduate of SIUE obtaining a bachelor’s and master's degree in education.

John worked as a teacher at Immaculate Conception Catholic School and later at Whiteside Elementary School until his retirement. He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying fishing, boating, and camping. Over the years, he had many pets and enjoyed all animals. John loved all sports and enjoyed umpiring and coaching in his free time. He was a volunteer for the Covenant House and spent many hours helping at-risk teens. Loving sports, he attended many of his children’s and grandson’s sporting events. Above all, John treasured his family, grandson, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin A. and Natalie C., nee Thom, Fritsche; his grandparents; and several aunts and uncles

Surviving are his loving wife of 50 years, Linda Fritsche, nee Toenjes, whom he married on October 18, 1974;

his daughter, Sarah Fritsche; his son, Matthew Fritsche; his grandson, Gabriel Fritsche; a sister, Kathy (Bob) Nugent; a brother, Tom (Mary) Fritsche; and many dear nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorials may be made to the family in care of Linda Fritsche. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation: Friends may visit from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.

Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, August 19, 2025, St. Teresa Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, Fr. Joseph Oganda officiating.

According to John’s wishes cremation services were held.