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Frank Fritz<\/strong>, the beloved co-host of the hit reality series American Pickers<\/em>, captured the hearts of fans with his passion for antiques and unique finds. Known for his adventurous spirit and keen eye for valuable collectibles, Fritz\u2019s journey in the world of picking left a lasting impact. Tragically, he passed away at the age of 60 on Monday, September 30, according to his former co-star Mike Wolfe<\/strong>. This news has prompted many to reflect on his contributions to the show and the legacy he leaves behind.<\/p>\n Here are 5 things to know about Fritz.<\/p>\n Born on October 11, 1965, in Davenport, Iowa, Fritz developed an interest in collecting at a young age, influenced by his family\u2019s history of treasure hunting.<\/p>\n Before his television career, he owned a business called Frank Fritz Finds, where he bought and sold antiques. His expertise in restoration allowed him to evaluate and enhance the items he discovered on the show.<\/p>\n Fritz began co-hosting American Pickers<\/em> when it premiered in January 2010. The show became a hit, showcasing his and Wolfe\u2019s adventures as they scoured the country for unique antiques.<\/p>\n Beyond antiques, Fritz was an avid motorcycle enthusiast. He frequently shared his passion for motorcycles on the show and enjoyed riding in his personal life.<\/p>\n He was also inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame in 2019. During the induction ceremony on August 8 of that year, Fritz told the Black Hills Pioneer<\/em>, \u201cThis is an honor that I will proudly talk about for the rest of my life.\u201d<\/p>\n The History Channel announced Fritz\u2019s departure from the series in July 2021, shortly after Fritz claimed to\u00a0The Sun<\/em> that he hadn\u2019t \u201ctalked to Mike in two years.\u201d Wolfe reacted to the shakeup in a statement at the time.<\/p>\n \u201cI have known Frank for as long as I can remember, he\u2019s been like a brother to me. The journey that Frank, Dani [Colby], and I started back in 2009, like all of life, has come with its highs and lows, blessings and challenges, but it has also been the most rewarding,\u201d he said. \u201cI will miss Frank, just like all of you, and I pray for the very best and all good things for him on the next part of his journey.\u201d<\/p>\n Fritz\u2019s last appearance on American Pickers<\/em> was in March 2020, shortly before he underwent back surgery.<\/p>\n \u201cI had a couple of rods put in there due to lifting stuff all the time. If you watch the show, you can see who\u2019s always lifting\u2014it\u2019s me,\u201d he told The Sun<\/em> in July 2021. \u201cIt had been hurting for a long time\u2014months and months. Finally, I had it looked at, and they said it was about ready to split in half, the bones in the middle of my spine. They put in a couple of big rods and stitched me up with 185 stitches. I had the back injury, but I can lift now; I\u2019m okay.\u201d<\/p>\n Fritz was also candid about his battle with Crohn\u2019s Disease, stating, \u201cThere\u2019s no cure; it\u2019s like a dragon. Every day is a crap shoot. One day I could have a double chimichanga with hot sauce and have no problem. The next day, I might have a piece of toast and some scrambled eggs and experience a flare-up. I haven\u2019t had any flare-ups recently; I\u2019ve been doing really well and have quit drinking.\u201d<\/p>\n In July 2022, one year later, Mike Wolfe announced that Fritz had been hospitalized after suffering a stroke.<\/p>\n \u201cI have been very private over the past year regarding Frank\u2019s life and the journey he\u2019s been on,\u201d Wolfe wrote on Instagram. \u201cThere have been lots of opinions about my friendship with Frank and the show, but now is not the time to set the record straight. Now is the time to pray for my friend.\u201d<\/p>\n He continued, \u201cPlease keep him in your hearts and thoughts. Frank, I pray more than anything that you make it through this okay. I love you, buddy.\u201d<\/p>\n \n\t\t<\/div>\nEarly Interest in Collecting<\/h2>\n
Premiere of American Pickers<\/em><\/h2>\n
A Passionate Motorcycle Enthusiast<\/h2>\n
Departure from\u00a0American Pickers<\/em> in July 2021<\/h2>\n
Health Issues<\/strong><\/h2>\n