Joseph "Joe" Stephen Fritz

Joseph “Joe” Stephen Fritz, age 63, passed away peacefully at his home in Florence, KY on March 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

He was born on December 23, 1961 in Jupiter, FL to Louis and Ann Fritz. Joe was the third of eight children and grew up in Fort Mitchell, KY. He graduated from Beechwood High School and Northern Kentucky University. On April 22, 1989, Joe married the love of his life, Vicky Ann Furnish, and together they raised two sons, Adam and Joel. Joe’s family was his greatest pride and joy. Joe had many interests and was a jack of all trades. He was a writer for the Dixie News, a seasonal employee for the IRS, a sales associate with Florence Hardware, a snack vendor for Snyder’s of Hanover, and a warehouse worker for Campbell’s, but his passion was running. Joseph ran over 25 marathons and if that weren’t impressive enough, his enthusiasm was contagious, and soon he had his sons, several of his siblings, nieces, nephews, and dozens of friends old and new running alongside him. Through his humor and kindness, Joe had the ability to encourage and motivate those around him to achieve their goals, and he was as happy as they were when a goal was reached. Joe was a great friend to many and enjoyed reminiscing with his lifelong friends from Fort Mitchell and sharing stories with new friends he made along the way. 

Joseph is survived by his beloved wife of over 35 years, Vicky; his devoted sons, Adam and his partner Nikki; Joel and his wife Jennifer; cherished grandson Isaac, supportive father, Lou; loving siblings: Luanne Williams (Jerry), Beth Schoettle (Jim), Jenny Burns (Tim), Barb Clifton (Trey), Tom Fritz (Molly), Tony Fritz (Sharon), Andy Fritz; as well as many special nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. 

Visitation will be on Tuesday March 11th, 2025, from 10:00AM – 12:30PM, with funeral service following @ Oak Ridge Baptist Church, 6056 Taylor Mill Rd, Covington, KY 41015. Celebration of Life @ Pride Park Community Center Main House immediately following service, 5614 Taylor Mill Rd, Taylor Mill, KY 41015.

 In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contributions to any of the following organizations: 

Cincinnati Zoo – Cincinnati, OH Monetary donation to the Cincinnati Zoo, Cathryn Hilker Angel Fund (Global Conservation with an Emphasis on Cheetahs) https://cincinnatizoo.org/tribute-gift/ and mention Cathryn Hilker Angel Fund in the comments

Vent Haven Museum – Fort Mitchell, KY Monetary donation, donation of dummies, vent books, photos, playbills, or other ephemera, and don’t forget to sign up for the Dummy Run (Vent Haven 5K Fun Run/Walk) https://www.venthaven.org/contribute Red Wolf Sanctuary 

Raptor Rehabilitation Center – Rising Sun, IN Monetary donation to the Red Wolf Sanctuary and Raptor Rehabilitation Center. https://www.redwolf.org/copy-of-general-donation