Gerald Wayne Fritsche, 80, of Perryville, passed away Monday, October 20, 2025, surrounded by his family at Mercy Southeast Hospital.
He was born April 28, 1945, in Farrar to Walter and Lora (Scholl) Fritsche.
Gerald and Sandra Morrison were married on August 26, 1967, at Grace Lutheran Church in Uniontown. She survives him in Perryville.
He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Perryville and a former member of the Perry County Rural Fire Board. Gerald was a farmer. He enjoyed gardening and spending time with his grandchildren, as well as attending their events and activities. Gerald never met a stranger and was kind to everyone.
Survivors include his son, Jeff (Rhonda) Fritsche of Perryville; daughter, Nicky Burger of Jackson; two brothers, Walter (Dyann) Fritsche Jr. of Perryville and Willard (Kathryn) Fritsche of Perryville; sister, Janet (Delbert) Fastenau of Percy, Ill.; four grandchildren, Justin Fritsche, Tyler (Natalie) Fritsche, Madison Burger and Leah Fritsche; and two great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Caroline Fritsche.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Nathan Fritsche; and three brothers, Milton Fritsche, Harold Fritsche and Earl Fritsche.
Visitation was held from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, October 26, 2025, at Ford & Young Funeral Home in Perryville and continued from 8 to 10 a.m. Monday, October 27, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Perryville.
Funeral service was at 10 a.m. Monday, October 27, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Perryville with Rev. Joseph Schlie officiating.
Burial was at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Perryville.
Memorial contributions may be given to Saxony Lutheran High School or the Immanuel Lutheran School Expansion Project.
Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome. com.
Ford & Young Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
