Loving 'American Pickers' Co-Host Frank Fritz Has Died: Mike Wolfe Shares a Heartfelt Tribute
It has been reported that Frank Fritz, the endearing co-host of the History Channel series, American Pickers, has passed away. His friend and fellow co-host, Mike Wolfe, broke the news on his Instagram page by posting a heartfelt tribute. Frank Fritz was a household name because of his show, and his death has had quite an emotional impact on the fans as well as on his friends.
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| Reality TV stars Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz visit “Late Show With David Letterman” at the Ed Sullivan Theater on January 11, 2011 in New York City. (Photo by Marcel Thomas/FilmMagic) |
Emotional Last Say by Mike Wolfe
Mike Wolfe, a young man who had been traveling the country along with Frank in pursuit of rare antiques, was deeply grieved and full of sorrow. He posted on his Instagram account with a broken heart saying, "It's with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night." He added that he felt privileged to have been there by Frank's side while leaving this world. These are indeed the words from Wolfe that really convey the deep bond between the two, both on and off the screen.
Frank Fritz's Health Issues
Frank Fritz had also suffered from some health issues beforehand. In 2022, he suffered from a stroke, and since then, his health has never picked up. During the initial days of this year, complications from the stroke and Crohn's disease made him end up in the hospital again. Despite these many battles Frank was facing, he continued to be strong and surrounded by his loved ones.
Tribute by Friends and Fans
Friends of Fritz's also streamed their condolences on social media. There was a recovery Facebook group created about his journey, and it came to light that Frank peacefully passed away surrounded by close friends, including Mike Wolfe, during this time. They wanted the community to spread love during that trying moment while they were getting over this heartbreak.
Legacy in Antique Hunting
Frank Fritz, born in Davenport, Iowa, is best known as the partner of Mike Wolfe, who travels throughout America to find valuable antiques for their *Antique Archaeology* stores in Le Claire, Iowa, and Nashville, Tennessee. Since *American Pickers* began airing in 2010, viewers have found themselves enthralled by the camaraderie, excitement, and passion with which the two men dig up long-forgotten treasures.
A Rift and Reconciliation
Frank exited the popular TV show *American Pickers* in 2020, and rumors of a possible feud with Wolfe started circulating. However, it was revealed that Wolfe was indeed trying to win Frank back to the show. For his tribute, Wolfe reflected on how long he has known him, saying Frank's personality on camera is the same person off camera. "Frank had a way of touching so many hearts just by being Frank," Wolfe wrote.
Danielle Colby Tribute
Danielle Colby is another prominent personality who has featured in the program. She also paid tribute to Frank, reminiscing how he lightened up moments they share and how his vulnerabilities and humors made him special to everyone who knew him. "I'll miss your ability to make everyone laugh. but what I'll miss most are those little glimpses of vulnerability," said Colby in her emotional post.
The Life of a True Original
Frank Fritz is gone, but his legacy will continue to be remembered in the hearts and minds of those who knew him and the millions of people who were entertained by watching him on *American Pickers*. Frank was enthusiastic, funny, and genuinely in love with antiques, which made him unforgettable. Rest in peace, Frank—your journey may have ended, but the memories you created will endure forever.
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