Joanne L. Chambers Fritz

Fritz, Joanne (Jo) L. Chambers
The Life and Times of Jo Fritz! Joanne (Jo) L. Chambers Fritz: 5-21-34/4-3-12. Jo is survived by son, Jon Finley, grandchildren Krista and Tim, sisters Mary Lou Chambers Gebler and Susan Chambers Frerichs. And we quote Jo; "Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, champagne in one hand - strawberries in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming, WOO HOO - WHAT A RIDE" (Author Unknown) Jo's "ride" and her calling began as co-founder of the Primate Foundation of Arizona (PFA). As the dream grew to fruition, Jo became a scientific "go to person" for the health and well-being of primates for associates all over the world. From humble beginnings with volunteers and her guidance, PFA grew to a safe haven with over 80 chimpanzees. In 1997, Jo served on a committee for the National Academies of Science: Committee on Long-Term Care of Chimpanzees. This was an advisory committee charged with developing criteria for the long-term care of the 600+ research chimpanzees owned and/or supported by the Federal government. Jo was the only one that did not have a doctorate or even a college degree. Jo was way ahead of her time and colleagues valued her extensive practical experience with chimpanzees. Quoting from her nomination letters; "All of the members except Jo were veterinarians; however it became obvious very quickly that she could hold her own in this group". Another; "Jo Fritz is the "Joan of Arc" and "Champion" for primate medicine." The PFA chimps were not used for invasive research, but rather behavioral and "psychological well-being". Jo developed a strong relationship with Arizona State University's (ASU) anthropology department. As of 2006, through her mentoring , students earned 18 master's degrees and nine doctorates based upon their work at PFA. Jo's induction into the Association of Primate Veterinarians (APV), an organization of primate veterinarians, was a glowing achievement. The APV has 500+ members from all over the world. "In the 30 year history of the APV, we have elected only five other honorary members prior to you!" There were accreditations for PFA that included, AAALAC, IACUC and USDA inspections. In all and specifically AAALAC, there were NEVER any marks against PFA. Jo had strong roots in Arizona. She came by her tenacity through her genes. Henry W. and Myrtle E. Chambers: Pioneer Grandparents re: Burt Fireman's column: Henry, set out with a wagonload of small palms and peddled them. All of the palms lining Central Ave, Palm Ave to Culver and Latham in Phoenix, are still growing strong! In 1912 Henry began the Chambers Transfer and Storage business. The company as a Mayflower agency went through three generations. Ernest (Whitey) and Mildred (Milly) Chambers, Parents re: Whitey was one of the five organizers of the Phoenix Thunderbirds and served as the first Big Chief, was an original incorporator of the Sun Angel Foundation (ASU) and Director Emeritus. He was the first recipient of the Junior Chamber of Commerce Gold Key Award west of the Mississippi. Milly became one of the original 25 members of the Phoenix Zoo Auxiliary, bringing in her family which threw Jo into the "real world" of animals and their care. Don Chambers, Brother; Founder Scottsdale Charros, President Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce, Sun Angel Foundation and received the U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award, etc.etc. This could go on, but this is also why Jo was so strong, so smart and so involved in her cause! Jo had many loves and most involved animals. The founder of Arizona Search Dogs writes, no one I talked to or asked for additional help had any idea how to form a 501c3. I guess you all talked to or mentioned it to Jo and I got that phone call to come out and visit for an hour or two. She sat me down with her accountant and mapped out everything. The really helpful part was her advice on how to maintain control of what I was trying to build...she obviously knew her stuff!!!!! In memorial to Jo, "Let's pay it forward!" Give your neighbor a flower, do a good deed, hug your friend and think of Jo. OH, PS! If you know the words, she wishes "Look up and sing, I did it My Way!"