Dr. William F. 'Bill' Fritz: A Life Remembered
September 9, 2024
Dr. William F. “Bill” Fritz, a retired internist known to GBMC patients for his kindness, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2024 at the age of 98. A World War II veteran, born in Merrill, Wisconsin, and raised in Oshkosh, he pursued a medical career after serving in the Navy during WWII. He graduated from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in 1949 and completed his internship and residency at Massachusetts General Hospital.
In 1955, Dr. Fritz began his private practice in Baltimore, where he became renowned for his compassionate patient care. He treated patients at GBMC (and many other area hospitals) and formerly served on our Board of Trustees and Foundation Board. Colleagues and patients alike admired his empathy and dedication. He was a fellow of the American College of Physicians and a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Long-time friend and physician Jim Porterfield, a GBMC cardiologist, said, “Bill was an outstanding role model to me and many other doctors in our community who combine the science of medicine with the compassion that is so vitally important in optimal patient care. He was also a remarkable man. I will miss him.”
Dr. Fritz had a wealth of knowledge about GBMC dating back to the very beginning when community doctors were getting comfortable with the new hospital. He was a natural storyteller, vividly recounting memories from 60 years ago. He was personal friends with and treating physician to GBMC founders, including Ginny Sherwood and Jeanne Baetjer. He recalled with a smile that Mrs. Baetjer “strongly encouraged” him to admit his patients to GBMC.
GBMC President and CEO, Dr. John B. Chessare appreciated Dr. Fritz’s personal support and strong philanthropy.
“He kindly encouraged me during the pandemic particularly and praised GBMC’s commitment to keeping our community informed," Dr. Chessare said. "His support of GBMC never wavered. He is among a handful of donors who provided philanthropic support consecutively dating back to GBMC’s opening.”
“GBMC owes a debt of gratitude to our earliest supporters. Dr. Fritz’s endorsement of GBMC beginning in 1965 was a strong statement to the community,” Dr. Robin Motter-Mast, Chief of Staff, added. “His service to his patients and their families remains a model for GBMC physicians who strive toward our vision to treat every patient every time like family.”
Beyond medicine, Dr. Fritz enjoyed crossword puzzles, oil painting, and writing, authoring a mystery novel at 84. He remained socially active, maintaining connections despite health challenges. His wife of 59 years, Susan Baker Fritz, predeceased him in 2009. Dr. Fritz is survived by his three children, eight grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held at the Episcopal Church of the Redeemer.
