Corliss J Fritz

Corliss Fritz, 85, Galesburg, ND, passed away on September 12, 2024 at Essentia Health in Fargo.

Corliss was born in Mount Pleasant, Iowa to Moris and Agnes (Halvorson) Fritz. At 2 years old, after his father passed away, he and his mom moved to North Dakota to live with his grandmother and uncle. In May 1945, before 1st grade, Polio crossed his path. After learning how to walk again, he started 2nd grade. Seven years later, he completed 8th grade at Greenfield Country School. He started at Oak Grove in 1953, which proved to be quite a new adjustment. After graduation, he attended State School of Science in Wahpeton, ND where he completed certifications in Auto Mechanics and Diesel Maintenance in 1959. In 1960, he moved out to Galesburg, ND and began working at the Galesburg Implement, a John Deere dealership. One summer evening after work, a young lady was pushed out of a car by her sister. Corliss heard Judy needed a ride home, and that was their introduction. They were married July 22, 1961; an impressive 63 years. In September 1961, they moved to Wahpeton, N.D. and Corliss went to work for Stoudt Motor Ford. In September 1962, their eldest son, Clark, arrived. In October 1963, they moved to Glendive, MT, where Corliss worked for Urbanec Motors until 2012, as a mechanic, Service Manager, and finally Warranty Clerk. In December 1964, they welcomed their second son, Mark Alan. In June 1967, Annette completed the family. Corliss’ favorite job was being foster parents with Judy. Together they raised many children, and retired after 18 years.

Corliss is survived by his wife Judy Fritz, of Galesburg, ND; his children: Clark (Joanna) Fritz of Streetman, TX, Mark Fritz of Galesburg, and Annette Hanson of Tiffin, Iowa; his grandchildren: John (Kate Mercer) Fritz, of Cheyenne, WY, Lindsey (Ryan) Graham of Ewa Beach, HI, Kayla Fritz of Billings, MT, and Julianne Hanson, of Tiffin, IA; his great-grandchildren: Landon, Parker, and Beckham Graham; his sisters-in-law LaVonne (Roy) Rud, Anita (Paul Nielsen) Baglin, and Janice (Ron) Pickar; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Corliss was preceded in death by his parents, Moris and Agnes Fritz; father and mother-in-law, Alfred and Marian Hochgraber; his son-in-law, Paul Hanson; brother and sister-in-law, Ronnie and Ilene Kyllo.