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William Fritsche Obituary
Visitation will be held at Costin Funeral Chapel, Inc., Monday, August 6, 2007 from 4 P.M. to 8 P.M. Funeral service will be on Tuesday, August 7, 2007 at 11 A.M. at Martinsville High School Auditorium., 1360 East Gray Street, Martinsville, IN. Interment , Mt. Pleasant Cemetery Hall, IN.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Fritsche
Charlie Gili
April 28, 2019
Hello,
We apologize for being so late in expressing our deepest condolences to you and your family. We want you to know that we will be sending Care Packages to deployed troops this week and several of these will be dedicated to your loved one. Each package will carry the name, photo, service branch, rank and hometown of William Ryan Fritsche US Army Staff Sergeant.
We realize that this is a small tribute, but we do this with all respect and sincerity and we want you to know that it is made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals from across the American youth hockey community, their families, friends and others who support our mission.
We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of our US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
March 9, 2018
Just wanted to say you're in my thoughts and prayers, for all your sacrifice and the friendship shared: Brother, Friend and Fellow CAV Scout. You're always remembered.MSG (R) GRAY
Karl Sabatt
October 6, 2017
I think of you every day. I honor your service and sacrifice so that my nieces may live free. They have not a clue because they have been handed freedom. But II thank you!!!!
July 27, 2016
Almost ten years have passed since they took you from us. They didn't know that was impossible. our memories have kept you near and dear to us all. They thought by taking you we would no longer have your influence on our lives, not so. Your presence has always been felt and that has comforted all of us. God is good and because of his goodness we've been able to have you still. Still loving you, Grandma Bert.
May 23, 2015
Gone but not forgotten bro. Still remember our last convo.. All the good times between SSG Carden,you,and I in Afghanistan
Roberta Miller
August 31, 2014
Tonite for some reason I'm missing you more than usual. It maybe just the quiet of the evening or the fact I hadn't said how much I love and miss you for awhile. Time has past so fast and I can't believe it's been 7yrs but my love for you is still as strong as it's always been. People will say life goes on without you but that's not true. You, your Dad and Grandpa goes with me no matter where I go. love Grandma Bert
SFC (R) Gray
February 10, 2014
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BROTHER. Was just thinking about Castle Hunting in Getmany with you prior to the deployment, the GTA 5 jump over the speed bump in Würsburg. OPPS... Good times. You're missed and well rembered.
carie
November 14, 2013
honoring your sacrifice!
November 11, 2013
Remembering you on this Veteran's Day. Thank you so much for your sacrifice and what you mean to our family and our Country. We miss you, but will meet again. Until then, love and miss you so much. Aunt Edna.
Craig Snapp
August 26, 2013
Your a true soldier and hero SSgt. Fritsche. You gave everything for our freedoms and we will honor you forever and that's a promise!
God bless you and your family!
SFC Gray
July 28, 2013
Gone but never forgotten Brother.
Daylin Louderback
July 27, 2013
Rest in Peace, Soldier. Your country owes you and your comrades a debt we can never repay, but must honor. God Bless you, William Fritsche, and your family and friends.
RIP Brother
CPT JASON HALL
July 27, 2013
Not forgotten, I assure you. Thanks for your sacrifice.
July 27, 2013
"All gave some, Some gave all". Thank you to you and your family for your dedicated service to our nation. God Bless You!
Brian H
July 27, 2013
Thank you for your service to God and country. You are not forgotten.
Karl Sabatt
May 27, 2013
It's been almost 6 years in the blink of an eye, and I'm glad that today, once again, I had a chance to say hello to you and do some catching up. You picked a pretty nice resting spot with a scenic view from the high ground. Good choice my friend! We'll be in touch.
April 9, 2013
Ryan, answered the call...of himself he gave all, and a part of America died.
Ryan, the Flag of the United States of America has your blood stitched into its fabric, and it will proudly wave forever in your honor. I pray you are at peace and in a place you have always longed to be. The Lord be with you.
Al Vallero
Lodi, Ca.
March 19, 2013
In memory & honor of SSG William Fritsche. We shall forever be grateful for his service & sacrifice.
Ryan as David the Shepherd boy.
March 15, 2013
Today is the first day of the rest of our lives. A life that we will travel without you, however we thank God for the gift of remembrance that fills our hearts with joy. Remembering the little dutchy speech as you told me the creation story that Mommy had read to you the night before. Then the intelligent words of a young man you grew to be. The excitment we all felt in you sports adventures and then the commitment to God and Country. And the knowledge that you answered the call to help save us all. My love grows deeper each passing year until I can see you again. Love Grandma Bert.
Tom Southwood
March 11, 2013
Thank you for your service. I feel honored to learn about your life and commitment.
Beth Mings
February 10, 2013
Happy Birthday to A Hero in Heaven
Alexis Chandler
February 1, 2013
I hope to be half as good of a citizen as you were and still are.You left a great footprint along the way to follow!
Roberta Miller
January 5, 2013
Another year begins and the memories just gets sweeter each day. I look at your pictures and smile. Thank God for the memories and the ability to smile again. Grandma Bert
vickie price
January 3, 2013
your lovely wife shared your story and my heart has been moved. What an honor to know you through Brandi. Saying thank you is not enough. May you rest in the peace and love God.
Brittany VZ
October 10, 2012
God Bless you. I thank you for your service. I was stationed at Ft. Myer from 2003-2005. You will never be forgotten. Never.
derek hornaday
October 5, 2012
god bless and rest easy in the arms of the lord.
Paul Brown
October 4, 2012
Ryan my cusion my American Hero you may gone from us but you will never be forgotten there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think about the price you payed so people like myself can continue to go to work go out with family and just be free you are truly an American Hero until I see you again RIP much love my cousin and thank you.
Volitta Fritsche
October 4, 2012
Hugs to all who remember and share their love of Ryan with us. May God Bless you always!
Dennis Duke
August 14, 2012
Volitta, we met 40 years ago, i was friends with Chris Clound and Curt Correll. My heart aches for you and your family. I can only imagine the pain and the pride you feel. Cathy and I have 2 kids in the Service of our country, and our middle Son is currently a 2LT in the Army, leading a Platoon on the ground in Afghanistan. I'll say a prayer for your family and Ryan.
Peggy Childers
July 31, 2012
July 27, 2012
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. William Fritsche:
Always remembering William. "Some gave all."
Patrick McDougal
July 27, 2012
To the family and friends of SSG Fritsche, you have my deepest condolences for your loss. Thank you, and please know that SSG Fritsche's sacrifice will not be forgotten.
SFC Gray
July 26, 2012
You are gone from us Brother: but you will not be forgotten. Your honourable sacrifice to God & country live with us.
Cody Johnson
August 5, 2011
From the time I knew him in Little League Baseball and Basketball, through Middle School, and in High School, Ryan was always a kind soul with a stubbornness that gave him great drive and determination. It takes true love for friends, family, country, and God to do what he did. I only hope I can serve my country half as well as he did. He is and will remain a hero in my heart
Peggy Childers
July 27, 2011
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. William Fritsche:
Please accept my remembrance of William on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
SFC Todd Gray Sr.
July 27, 2011
Gone but never forgotten Brother.
Christy Jacoby
July 26, 2011
Ryan, I feel so blessed to have grown up with you. I always thought of you more as a little brother than a cousin. I want you to know that I'll always remember you and your sacrifice, and that I will always make sure that my children and their children know you and your bravery. Thank you, and we love you. Christy
July 4, 2011
I thank God for the wonderful gift of memory that he gave us. Becuase now looking back it's such a sweet time to remember Ryan. The world was cheated by his loss however his memory will live forever. I miss you but you still hold a very sweet part of by heart. I'll love you forever, love Grandma Bert
justin collier
July 4, 2011
Thank you! For serving I remember play football with Ryan in high-school. I played center and he played quater back. Always a soft spoken guy. And I remember you could look to him when things weren't going so well to do the right thing. I also got a blue fritsche shirt that he gave me to vote for his mother! I think of the Frirsche family often as well as all of the service members!
Marilyn Gabel
June 20, 2011
May god keep your light burning bright so we all dont forget the price you payed to keep are candle's light.
Marilyn Gabel.
Broadway NC.
Edna Connors
June 20, 2011
Ryan, I am proud to be your aunt. I love and miss you. thank you from the bottom of my heart. Not a day goes by that you don't come to my mind. - Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
Renae Portish
June 20, 2011
I did not know him personally but many of my friends did. To hear them praise him and Thank him for his service was inspirational. I know he is missed and always in the hearts of friends and family. Thank you Staff SGT Fritsche for the ultimate sacrifice. May God bless your family with peace.
James Knue
June 20, 2011
Thank you sir for serving and thank you for giving us our freedom may god bless your family
Jordan Arick
June 20, 2011
Thanks Ryan for fighting for or country! You did what most others wouldn't have!
Ken Sayers
May 30, 2011
Ryan, thanks again for everything you gave. Our time in jump school together is still one of my favorite times I can remember. You are what makes this day special. Thank You.
Tammy Brown
May 28, 2011
Thinking of You this Memorial Day weekend..Words seem hollow but I still want to THANK YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE..Ryan, you will be forever remembered, loved and missed by many(including myself)..
Tam
Aaron Emery
May 26, 2011
I went through basic training with Ryan and we were in the Old Guard together and participated in funerals together for over three years. He was a dear friend and a wonderful man. May he rest in peace.
Lindsay B
January 29, 2011
I did not know SSG Fritsche, but I do know of Outpost Fritsche. Oct 3 2009 My husbands troop was attacked at Keating and lost 8 soldiers that day. My husband lead re-enforcements down from Fritsche. I am sorry for your loss.
Peggy Childers
July 27, 2010
To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. William Fritsche:
Remembering William on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Roberta Miller
April 3, 2010
Another Easter is here to celebrate the resurection of life and to assure all of us that you live on in the arms of God and someday will be united with us by the Grace of God. Love you and miss you. Grandma and Grandpa
Charlie and Darla Smith
April 2, 2010
never forgotten
Jennifer
April 1, 2010
We will never forget you, Ryan. Your sacrifice for our freedom is a debt we cannot repay.
JR GREENWAY
January 26, 2010
RYAN,
IAM WRITING TO SAY I MISS AND LOVE YOU VERY MUCH,YOU ARE THE BEST SON IN LAW ANYONE CAN HAVE. MISS AND LOVE YA
JR
October 29, 2009
To the family of William R. Fritsche
I lost a son last year. I know what you are going through. Time does not heal. My prayers are with you & thoughts...May God Bless you all.
Laura Fritsche
Texas
Tammy Brown
October 26, 2009
Ryan,
I don't understand why God called you home so soon. Although we miss your dad I take some comfort knowing that he and your Grandma Fritsche were there to greet you on the other side.
Your mission here on earth may be through but I am confident you have been assigned a new mission(Guardian Angel to those you loved and were left behind)..They need you Ryan..The pain and grief of your loss was devastating and everlasting..My heart broke for my best friend(your mom), TJ, Brandi, your Grandma Bert, Grandpa Jay, Grandpa Fritsche & the rest of your family. You would be so proud of them Ryan. Their pain is immense but they have Honored your Memory and Sacrifice in so many ways and continue to do so every day..You were and always will be loved by so many..I am so thankful I was able to tell you that I loved you and was proud of you before you left for Afghanistan, never dreaming that would be the last time I ever seen you this side of heaven. One thing I didn't get to say was 'Thank You Ryan'..You were an AMAZING YOUNG MAN who touched my life in ways I will always cherish. I know you have a long list of people you're watching over but I hope you add me to the list.
I Honor Your Sacrifice As A Soldier..
I Love and Miss You because your Mom was gracious enough to share a piece of your life with me..To Know You Was To Love You..There is a song called "Heaven Is Wherever You Are"..I believe that with all my heart..
Hope to see you there.
Tam
Roberta Miller
August 4, 2009
I've always known the wonderful person Ryan was but if I said so people would say that was just a grandmother speaking. But Thanks to all of you that has so graciously said it for me. All my love Grandma
Peggy Childers
July 27, 2009
To the family of Staff Sgt. William Fritsche:
William gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
SSG Fritsche
July 12, 2009
Jonathan Hill
July 12, 2009
To all friends and family of SSG Fritsche
I have assumed operations here on OP Fritsche. I have learned a lot about the soldier and would have been honored to fight beside him. I want to send my sympathy's to the Fritsche Family. I have included a photo of the small monument dedicated to SSG Fritsche here on the OP. Thank you and God Bless.....
SFC Jonathan G Hill
3RD PSG 3-61 CAV
4BCT, 4ID
OP Fritsche
SGT Ken Sayers
July 10, 2009
SSG Fritsche,
I will always remember the times that we spent together. From the deployment to Africa to Airborne School in Ft. Benning. I have always looked up to you and respected you as both a great soldier and an even greater person. You will never be forgotten. You will always be missed.
June 19, 2009
Just thinking of you and all your family.. your 2nd cousin.. peggy Duncan
SFC Riddell
February 15, 2009
Time does not heal all wounds. I had the privilege to serve with young Fritsche in his first duty assignment at the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). I was his Squad Leader, by choice. When Pvt. Fritsche was assigned to Bravo Company the leadership could tell that he had something special. He was bright, physically fit, handsome, and confident (in a quite kind of way). I was the lucky one that had the pick of the litter and swiped Pvt. Fritsche up immediately, and was not disappointed. You could tell that he came from small town mid America. He took pride in everything that he did and accomplished every task above the standard. He was placed in one of the most sought after jobs in The Old Guard as a member of the Full Honors Casket Team because of his qualities. And he did not disappoint. I deployed to the Horn of Africa with him and back then unfortunately lost contact due to me moving to another job. Word of SSG Fritsches death came as a total shock to all of us. I am currently stationed on a year tour in Afghanistan and think of SSG Fritsche often. I have not had the opportunity to visit the Forward Operating Base where he was assigned but I do check to see what activity is going on at Outpost (OP) Fritsche. I only hope that the Soldiers serving there know that that OP is named after not only a grate Soldier but one of the best human beings that I have ever known. Rest in Peace and know that you will never be forgotten.
Kenna Larra
December 29, 2008
We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families at this time. This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely,
Kenna
KEVIN GIBBONS
October 28, 2008
TO THE FAMILY OF SSG FRITSCHE,
WORDS CANNOT DESCRIBE THE PAIN THAT ALL OF US ARE GOING THROUGH WHO HAVE LOSTED A LOVED ONE. MY COUSIN LOST A FRIEND A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO IN AFGHANISTAN AND IM STILL REELING FROM THE PAIN FROM THIS, EVEN THOUGH I MET HIS FRIEND ONCE, I CRIED FOR HIM EVEN WHEN I LISTEN TO HIS FAVORITE ARTIST CELINE DION, THE WORDS IN HER SONGS BRINGS ME TO TEARS. WELL ANY WAY SSG FRITSCHE REST IN PEACE.
Ed Rose
October 9, 2008
To the Familly of SSG Fritsche,
I served in the Old Guard with William Fritsche. We were not close but, I was deeply saddened by the news of your loss. Though I'm sure you've likely become familiar with this quote. I wanted to leave you this in case you haven't. God Bless.
"I pray that our heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom. Yours very sincerely and respectfully, Abraham Lincoln."
Brandon Zettl
September 2, 2008
Brother you are deeply missed but never forgotten.
In Memory of 'Ryan' ~ (Debra Estep)
July 29, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know 'Ryan', but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
July 1, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Staff Sgt Fritsche!
Becky Coy
June 30, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we thank god everyday for brave men & women like your soldier for defending our country. We are building a wall in honor of all those who have lost their lives in Iraq & Afghanistan. It's called Wall of Heroes. If you would like more information please contact me at [email protected].
RIP Ryan. We Will Never Forget
April 29, 2008
Ned Goubeaux
November 2, 2007
I went through basic training with Will and served with him in the Old Guard. He was the best person I ever knew in the military. I never heard him complain. He always had a great outlook on life. Fantastic person.
Peggie Writtenhouse
October 4, 2007
My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to the family of William Fritsche. Thanks for your Soldier's Courage, Service and Dedication to our Country and Freedom.
The price he and his family have paid, will never be forgotten.
In the days to come if you find yourself feeling like you can‘t go on , recall the years and days you were blessed by his presence, this is the one thing that cannot be taken away from you are your memories, may you find comfort there and may God’s Peace strengthen you through the difficult days ahead and the emptiness in your hearts!
I am the Sister of a hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in 2005 in Taji, Iraq and time does make it hurt less.
"And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes,
there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying,
there shall be no more pain.
For the former things have passed away."
Revelations 21:4
NOW SERVING IN GOD’S ARMY
In His Memory,
Master Sgt James F. Hayes
1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division Fort Campbell KY
Aaron Emery
September 30, 2007
I went to basic training and served in the old guard with Will. He was a great man and friend. My deepest condolences.
PFC William E Lewis
September 26, 2007
To the family and friends of Ryan, I was the last person that spent any significant time with him before the mission on the 27th the time that we spent relaxing before the fateful mission the following day will be how I will remeber Ryan, happy and full of knowledge. Ryan I know that you are watching over those you love now...just know that your brothers miss you more than you will ever know, and I am extreamly greatful to have known you as an NCO and as more importantly a friend.
Brenda Richardson
September 17, 2007
Please forgive me for taking so long to tell you how sorry I am about your son Ryan. My son is Tom Bostick, his commander, who died that day with him. I can not tell you how many times I have asked why it was my son instead of me...I am sure you (the mother of this young man) has had similiar questions...I can just keep hoping in my heart that someone else lived because of it. I will keep you in my prayers as well as his wife and other family members.
SSG Costello
September 10, 2007
It was my privilege to serve with SSG Fritsche in The Old Guard and in Africa. He was always a good person to have around and brought much joy to those around him. He did great things for our country and the world. My condolences go to his family, but also my thanks for making such a great human being. God Bless!
Sheila Holloway
September 4, 2007
To the Family,
My prayers are with you during the days and years ahead. I did not know your son, but mine served with him in Kamu. My son Roland spoke very highly of all of the men in his unit. I want to thank your son for the sacrifice he has made and thank him for the lessons I am sure he imparted to my son. May you find strength in the Lord and one another.
Sheila H. (Fielder's mom)
rafael colon
September 2, 2007
Our prayers go out to the family evry night as we continue the fight here in afghanistan we miss you, 1-91 cavalry medics
debbi rivers
August 27, 2007
To the parents of William, I would like to extend my heart felt sorrow as I know what you are going through and what you will yet go through in the coming weeks. I too am the mother of another fallen soldier and with God's continued support in my life I try to reach out to other who might need the support of someone who has been where you are. I want to offer you the support you may need to contact me anytime so that you may vent, talk or just seek comfort I am here for you. As a Gold Star Mother I've reached out through God's blessings to many across the country and we have a good support group. May God continue to give you and your family the love, comfort and healing that you need. In memory of my son SPC Harry (Buck) Winkler III KIA Samarra, Iraq November 12, 2006
Gale Poindexter
August 25, 2007
I am writing to offer my condolences to you and your family over the loss of your son Staff Sgt William Fritsche. I lost my son in Iraq on May 6/07 and I can understand your pain of losing a child.
When things settle down, I recommend that you contact a man named Michael Reagan @
www.michaelgreaganartist.com
He will draw one portrait of the fallen soldier.He does this for free and will draw any picture of your choosing. He has drawn presidents and other celebrities. My husband and and I got one and it is wonderful. It has helped me with the healing process. I look at this beautiful picture everyday.
I pray you will be guided by a higher power to give you peace, comfort and strength in this time.
Psalm 34:18
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit
GOD Bless you and your family. Your son was a true American Hero and we are all very proud of his service.
( Proud mother of Sgt Joel W. Lewis, ACo. 5/20, 3-2 SBCT -KIA May 6/07, Baqubah, Iraq )
heather brown
August 25, 2007
Thank you, william for your sacrifice. Our prayers go out to you and your loved ones. We feel your families anguish and sorrow. My cousin Shawn D. Hensel was killed in West Baghdad, on 8-14-2007. Know that we are thinking of you and you and your families and all those out there who have a friend of family member in the military. God Bless you.
Dewayne Standridge
August 24, 2007
RIP Hero...God bless you Ssgt. Fritsche!
sheila
August 23, 2007
Sincere sympathy to the family. It is so obvious how loved he was, how wonderful a person he was as well. His photo really conveys what a joy he must have been to be around. May he rest in peace.
Cindy Greene mother of Sgt. Jeremy R. Greene kia 4-28-07
August 21, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
August 20, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Staff Sgt Fritsche and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
melissa S.
August 11, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Melissa S.
August 11, 2007
Ryan,
I can't believe that your gone. You will always be in mine and nee's heart. You were unbelievable guy. The way you treated Brandi, she could of not asked for a better husband. I know that your friends couldn't of asked for anyone better than you. Your mom raised a kind, loving, honorable and devoted son. You had all the kids loving you. I remember most of all Nee asking when are Brandi and Ryan coming to Sharon's house. You interacted and played with her and the others just as if they were your own.
I can't believe that you are gone. I feel like I lost another brother. I cry asking God "WHY" someone who put others before himself, he was young and he was starting his life. I know that you died doing what you wanted to do. I will hold your memories and being our hero close to my heart forever. I wish that you would of made it back, you sacrificed your life so that our country and my daughter could live each day feeling a little more safe. I honor and respect you as a friend and a solider. Thanks for everything you have done for our country. Also, thank you for the way that you were with Nee, she loves you so much and she will miss you. She asked Why you went to heaven and I told her that you were protecting us from bad guys. You will never be forgotten always in our hearts and memories.
Some gave all and all gave some!!!
Our American Hero
&
Our New Guardian Angel
Love Always and Forever.
Missy And Nee
Tom Gugliuzza
August 10, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to the Fritsche family in the loss of William. I did not know William, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. William you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Christy
August 10, 2007
This is an incredible tragedy for our family. Ryan was an amazing young man, and I feel lucky to have had the chance to grow up with him.
Ryan, we'll never forget, and we love you forever. Thank you
melodie Pittman
August 9, 2007
Deepest sympathies to learn of the death of William doing his duty to serve and protect the country and her people. Thank you for the beautiful gift of your Hero Son.
I also know that we have requested extra support by the volunteers of booksforsoldiers for the 173rd for losses recently. We must continue to let them know we love and appreciate them. We have not forgotten.
Grace & Peace
173rd "Mom"
booksforsoldiers "Somebody's Mother"
Deanna Geiersbach
August 8, 2007
There are no words to desscribe the loss of Ryan. He was a great guy, friend, husband and soldier. He will be missed greatly and was loved deeply by the whole community and i want to thank everyone who has supported Volitta, Brandi and TJ during this time. I can not imagine what they are going through.
RIP Ryan
J Wright
August 7, 2007
There are simply no words to express the gratitude felt for what Staff Sgt. Fritsche gave for our nation and for our world. While the nation grieves for every loss, we know that your pain is deep and personal. My prayer is for his family and friends to find peace and comfort in the memories of your loved one, and joy in knowing he is, and forever will be, one of our nation's finest heroes.
Jean and Tom Silkey
August 6, 2007
For the family and friends of Staff Sgt. William Fritsche: You are in our thoughts and prayers. Our nephew returned from Nuristan, more specifically Kamu in June with the 3-71 Cav., 10th Mountain. All of the soldiers serving in Afghanistan are heros. We honor Sgt. Fritsche always in our memory and hearts. Our deepest sympathy, and appreciation for your sacrifice are sent to you. God bless you.
Pam Potter
August 6, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
John Casey
August 5, 2007
I served with Bill for 3 years in the Old Guard. He was probably one of the nicest people that I have ever known. He will be missed.
Lucien de calonne
August 5, 2007
So sorry for your loss.
Unfortunately this country has lost another under these trying circumstances.
God Bless you all
August 3, 2007
To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA
Gary Allain
August 3, 2007
Staff Sgt. William Fritsche
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.
Bettina Fowler
August 3, 2007
My prayers are with you! May he rest in peace! He is a hero! Stay strong!
I am a wife of a soldier fighting in Afghanistan for our freedom
Joan Cote, USO Delaware
August 2, 2007
All of us at USO Delaware were deeply sadden to hear of William's death. We became great friends with him and the other members of TOG (The Old Guard), BRAVO Co as they brought home their fallen brothers & sisters into Dover AFB. He was always so friendly, gracious and very appreciative of our support for their solemn mission. He even took the time to send a thank you letter from Africa during his deployment there. Our deepest sympathy to his family & friends. You have earned your place in heaven, my friend and HERO....your sacrifice will not be forgotten.
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