David Alan Fritz

David Alan Fritz was born in Warrensburg on Jan. 18, 1963, and departed this world on June 1, 2025, at the age of 62. He resided in Mansfield with his brothers. David attended Sunrise State School until graduation and then began working at Unique Services Sheltered Workshop in Mountain Grove. After retiring from there, he devoted another 20 years to Doco Sheltered Workshop in Ava. He was also a devoted member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, where he proudly served as an altar boy for many years. David was a kind, friendly soul who never met a stranger. He was as strong as an ox, and if you ever received one of his famous pats on the back, you surely remembered it. Fiercely protective and always eager to show off his muscles, David had a heart as big as his smile. He loved sports and proudly brought home numerous trophies and medals from the Special Olympics, participating in bowling, basketball, and most recently, the Agape Baseball League.
David is survived by his brothers Ray, Jim, and Tim Fritz, all of Mansfield; his sisters, Teresa Goodson, of Springfield; Sara Fritz, of Mansfield; Loretta Fritz Moore, of Ava; and Angela Smith, of Hartville; along with a host of nieces and nephews whom he loved “with all my heart.” He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Ray and Rose Fritz, of Hartville; and his sister, Sandra Goss, of Mountain Grove. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Doco Sheltered Workshop in Ava for providing a safe and loving work environment, where David thrived and was deeply loved. Heartfelt gratitude also goes to all those who helped provide David with the support to live independently in his own home. The list is long, and the appreciation is immeasurable. A graveside service was held at Steele Memorial Cemetery in Hartville on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 11 a.m., followed by burial. Services were under the direction of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home. Online condolences: www.craighurttfuneralhome.com.