OSAGE — Mark Matthew Fritsch, 73, of Osage, passed away peacefully Sunday, August 23, 2026.
A private family graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, September 12, at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Osage.
A celebration of Mark’s life will follow from 2 to 4 p.m. at Cedar Valley Seminary, 200 N. Seventh Street in Osage. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories and celebrate his life.
Mark was born September 13, 1952, in Rochester, Minnesota, the son of Matthew and Barbara Winkels Fritsch.
His Catholic faith remained an important foundation throughout his life.
Mark attended St. Francis and Lourdes High School, graduating in 1970.
He built a long and respected career in manufacturing sales.
Mark spent most of his career working in inside sales at Crenlo. He later moved into outside sales for Loegering/Terex, building strong and lasting relationships across the region before retiring in 2024.
Colleagues, clients and friends knew Mark for his professionalism, integrity and sharp sense of humor.
He was also immediately recognizable by his trademark, perfectly maintained buzz cut.
Mark had a lifelong passion for sports, particularly baseball and hockey.
When his children were young, he spent countless hours at local fields and ice rinks, helping coach their T-ball, baseball and hockey teams.
In recent years, Mark became an enthusiastic follower of the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. He rarely missed a game featuring his favorite fellow Iowan, Caitlin Clark.
His favorite athletes, however, were always his grandchildren. Mark treasured every opportunity to attend their sporting events and cheer them on.
Mark also enjoyed hunting, fishing, classic rock music and spending time outdoors.
He will be remembered as a kind and humorous man who was willing to drop everything to help a neighbor, friend or loved one in need.
Mark is survived by his wife, Gwen Driscoll Fritsch; children Chris and Laura Fritsch and Sarah and Nick Malecha; stepchildren Ryan Driscoll, Jared Driscoll, and Stacy and Travis Petree; grandchildren Grayson, Mason, Carson, Landon, Allie, Kaydee, Cully, Jaycee, Rylee, Bailey, Haylee and Madie; brother David and Gloria Fritsch; sister Darlene Holmes; many nieces and nephews; and his two orange cats, Cheeto and Dorito, who captured the heart of a lifelong dog lover.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Matthew and Barbara Fritsch; sister Helen; nephew Steve; and granddaughter Madison.
HOFF CELEBRATIONS — CHAMPION CHAPEL OF OSAGE is assisting the family with arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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