Biography

Bill Fritz, well-known in Portland for his political, labor and cultural work, died suddenly in his home in Portland on Monday. He was 67.

Bill grew up in San Francisco and moved to Portland in the late 1970s to work for the Oregon Federation of Teachers. He then worked for Oregon AFSCME, University of Oregon LERC, and Oregon Senior and Disabled Services until he retired eight years ago to travel with his wife, Nita Brueggeman.

Bill loved being retired and was enthusiastic about almost everything he did. In retirement, he was busier than ever, dividing his time between his beloved family, Oregon Democratic politics and cultural activities. Bill especially loved all performing arts in Portland. He couldn’t write checks, but he could give his time and he did, working with Nita as a volunteer for, among many, White Bird, Oregon Symphony, Portland Jazz Festival and ART.

Bill is survived by Nita; his step-children, Russel (Deborah), Gayle (Mike); by four beloved grandchildren, Derek, Zachary, John and Sarah; his mother-in-law, Barbra Bickel; and in-laws, Peggy and Jess Wood and John Bickel.

As he wished he will be cremated. A memorial will be held on March 10 at 5 p.m. at Body Vox. Donations in his memory may be made to any arts organization.