James Robert Fritsche

James Robert "Jim" Fritsche, 79, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer.

Jim was born on May 6, 1947, in Rochester, Minnesota, to Ollie, and Lloyd Fritsche. He was the oldest of four siblings: Jean, Joe, and Janet.

Jim was in Boy Scouts for many years. He was very proud of earning the rank of Eagle Scout. He graduated from Lourdes High School in 1965 and went to Rochester Junior College, where he met the love of his life, Anne Louise Larson.

In March 1968, Jim was drafted into the U.S. Army and served on the front lines during the Vietnam War. He received numerous awards for bravery, including two Bronze Stars and an Army Commendation Medal with an Oak Leaf Cluster, during his tour of duty. He was honorably discharged in December 1969.

After returning home, Jim and Anne were married on June 27, 1970. They moved to Mankato, where Jim attended Mankato State University and graduated in 1973 with a degree in Finance.

In the fall of 1977, Jim and Anne moved back to Rochester where he joined his father-in-law's real estate company, Larson Realty. After 6 years in real estate, Jim built a successful career as a mortgage banker where he had the opportunity to help individuals and families achieve the dream of homeownership. Throughout his career, Jim was known for his professionalism, the genuine care he showed to others, and the personal relationships he developed with the people he served. He retired from US Bank Home Mortgage in October 2018.

Jim and Anne shared 56 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring love, partnership, and commitment to one another. Together, they raised three children: Erik, Chad, and their daughter, Amanda, who unexpectedly passed away in 1997. Amanda remains an important and cherished part of their family and will always hold a special place in their hearts.

Jim was a loving and involved grandfather to Nolan, Drew, Annika, Addison, and Cameron. Family was at the center of Jim's life, and he took great pride in being present for his children's and grandchildren's many activities throughout the years, encouraging them and celebrating their accomplishments. Jim's devotion to his children never wavered; even during his final months, he willingly drove anywhere to support them and attend their activities.

Jim and Anne dedicated 12 years as leaders of the Compassionate Friends. Jim also served as Director of the Compassionate Friends Memorial Golf Tournament for 16 years.

He treasured road trips with his brother, Joe, to T.I. and Grand Casino. He was a die-hard fan of the Minnesota Twins and Vikings and loved watching all four major PGA golf tournaments. Closer to home, his favorite times were spent on the greens or at the lanes, golfing and bowling in a league alongside his two sons.

Jim will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his kindness towards others, his dedication to his work, and the many relationships he built throughout his life. Above all, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend who will deeply be missed by all who knew and loved him. We will forever miss the infectious laughter that so easily filled our homes and hearts.

Jim was preceded in death by his daughter, Amanda (at age 15); his parents; his parents-in-law, Willard and Lorraine Larson, sister-in-law, Debby Fritsche; and brother-in-law, Doug Larson.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Anne Fritsche; his children, Erik (Amy), and Chad (Angela); and his five grandchildren, Nolan, Drew, Annika, Addison, and Cameron. He also leaves behind his brother, Joe, and sisters, Jean (Wayne) Mallan, and Janet (Brian) Mattson. He is also survived by his brother's in-law, Steve Larson, Rick (Karen) Larson, Tom (Maelissa) Larson, sister-in-law Sue (David) Gibson, and Mona Larson. He is also survived by 20 nieces and nephews and 20 great-nieces and nephews, and numerous cousins.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Peace United Church of Christ (1503 2nd Ave NE, Rochester, MN 55906). Visitation will be from 4-7 pm on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes (5421 Royal Pl NW Rochester, MN 55901) as well as one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial with Military Honors will be at Grandview Memorial Gardens in Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Peace United Church of Christ, Samaritan Bethany Home on 8th or American Cancer Society.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Fritsche family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com