Bud Fritz

Martell DeVera Fritz, lovingly known as Bud, was born on November 4th, 1938, in Enderlin, North Dakota, to William and Alma Fritz. Upon graduating from Enderlin High School as salutatorian, Bud received an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. In 1961, after marching in President John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Parade, Bud graduated from West Point. On Bud’s first assignment to Babenhausen, Germany, he met his soon-to-be-wife, Sheryl, the daughter of a retired Army officer. In order to go on dates, Bud bought a 1952 Mercedes, which the two nicknamed the “Blue Beast.” After dating for ten months, Bud and Sheryl were happily married. In 1965, the couple had their first daughter, Kelley, and in 1971, they welcomed their second daughter, Nancy. After 26 years in the Army, Bud retired as a Colonel. His second career was at Lockheed Martin for 17 years, which included much travel to Japan and South Korea. Next, restless in retirement, he worked as a consultant for Northrop Grumman until the age of 72. Bud was a lifelong Boston Red Sox fan and especially loved when they beat the New York Yankees. He also loved to travel; he and Sheryl went on innumerable river cruises in Europe and ocean cruises all over the world. Above all, Bud enjoyed spending time with his family, six of whom lovingly call him PopPop. He could usually be found dancing with his grandchildren or “stealing” their noses. In 2012, Bud and Sheryl relocated from Arlington, Texas, to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where they were heavily involved in their church, Church of the Holy Spirit Anglican, Tulsa Newcomers, Jenks Senior Center, and various bridge groups. He served on the board of the Jenks Senior Center, participated in Great Decisions, served on the vestry of his church, and played fantasy football with his sons-in-law. For Bud’s funeral, please wear bright colors, which he loved. Bud is survived by: His wife, Sheryl Fritz His daughter, Kelley, and son-in-law, Jim Baughman His daughter, Nancy, and son-in-law, Scott Vance His grandchildren, Hannah, Maya, and Nina Vance and Nash, Evan, and Kate Baughman His sister, Maurine, and brother-in-law, Paul Bothwell His nephews, Scott Fritz, Rick, and Ron Bothwell, and their families His nieces, Ronda Klubben, Barbara Thompson, and their families His beloved cat, Dante He is preceded in death by: His parents, William and Alma Fritz His brother, Dayton Fritz

Tributes

Bud Fritz

November 4, 1938 - May 18, 2026