Richard V. Fritts

Richard V. Fritts, 99, of Lawrence, Kansas, formerly of Ottawa, passed away Thursday, October 27, 2016, at Brandon Woods Retirement Community. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Tuesday, November 1, 2016, at Woodlawn Cemetery, Pomona, Kansas, with military honors by United States Army Honor Guard. Richard was born Saturday, April 21, 1917, in Pomona, Kansas, the son of John Wesley and Nellie Frances (Brown) Fritts. In 1951, he moved to Ottawa. Richard served in the United States Army during World War II from December 1941 to December 1945. He served in the 983rd Field Artillery Battalion obtaining the rank of Technician Fourth Grade. In 1944, he was attached to the X Corps in the Philippine campaign, beginning with the invasion of Leyte. He also served in the invasion at New Guinea and Luzon. His decorations and citations included the American Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 2 Bronze Service Stars, World War II Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Bronze Star Medal. Richard was united in marriage to Vivian Marie Kline in 1951 at Bentonville, Arkansas. She preceded him in death on September 6, 2011. He was also preceded in death by his parents, John and Nellie Fritts; four brothers, Edsel Fritts, Stanley Fritts, Clifford Fritts, and John Junior Fritts; and four sisters, Ruby Rice, Anita Bell Chambers, Alma Fritts, and Gladys McIntire. Survivors include his son, Monty Fritts formerly of Ottawa; brother, Ewing Fritts of Ottawa; and several nieces and nephews. Richard was employed with Town & Country Supply as a small motor mechanic for 23 years, retiring in 1983. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5901, Modern Woodmen, and Power of the Past Antique Engine & Tractor Association. Richard enjoyed Power of the Past club meetings and show, and bowling. In recent years, Richard enjoyed riding Bill and Darlene Lister’s Gator to check cattle. The family suggests memorial contributions to Power of the Past Antique Engine & Tractor Association c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067. Family and friends are encouraged to post their condolences and memories on Richard’s Tribute Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com