Frank Fritz was one of the beloved stars from American Pickers who stole viewers’ hearts with his passion for antiques, collectibles and their rich histories. However, his life wasn’t without personal struggles, health issues and instances of heartache; following his untimely passing at age 60 on September 30, 2024 fans have had many questions regarding relationships, health concerns and circumstances impacting later years of Frank’s life – this article explores this further! This will also cover his legacy that lives on in this article!
What Was Frank Fritz?
Frank Fritz rose to stardom as co-host of American Pickers on History Channel from 2010-14, popular among viewers because of his down-to-earth persona and keen eye for valuable antiques that made American Pickers such an enjoyable show to watch. Alongside Mike Wolfe, they traveled all across America searching for hidden gems.
Before his television career began, Frank served as a fire inspector before finding great pleasure in collecting vintage items. This interest eventually lead him to co-found Antique Archeology – later one of the key components in American Pickers franchise alongside Mike Wolfe and Danielle Colby – thus popularising picking among a whole new generation of collectors.
What Was Frank’s Health Issue?
Frank Fritz was no stranger to health problems over his lifetime. After being diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease – an inflammatory bowel condition which affects millions of Americans – Frank still managed to appear regularly on American Pickers until 2020 when health concerns forced him out of the show.
Frank underwent back surgery in 2019, which kicked off an array of medical challenges for him and American Pickers as well. While recovering, COVID-19 pandemic hit and further delayed Frank’s return. American Pickers continued without him but fans continued worrying for his well-being.
Mike Wolfe, his former co-star and friend, posted to social media to request prayers for Frank following this devastating stroke, marking an important turning point in his life as he faced recovery challenges despite remaining hopeful that things would improve over time. Unfortunately however, Frank’s condition only worsened further over time.
Does Frank Fritz Have a Wife?
Frank Fritz was well known for keeping a relatively low profile when it came to his personal life, unlike Mike Wolfe from American Pickers who often posted updates and shared photographs online; after 2018, however, Frank’s accounts became private due to stroke. This often left details regarding relationships rumor-ridden as they often remain unknown or unsaid for long – leading fans speculate about what could possibly have happened between the pair and led them down several different paths of speculation and gossip.
Rumors spread quickly that Frank was involved in an extended relationship and, perhaps, on the verge of getting married in 2021. He’d been dating Diann, whom he regularly posted photos with and her family to his now-private Facebook page – including one with Paige (her daughter) holding Eulalia as though it were their granddaughter Eulalia; many fans assumed he’d tied the knot, however Frank later stated he did not consider Diann and her family part of his immediate family unit.
Frank welcomed Eulalia into his life with open arms as “Grandpa Frank”, showing his affection and showing it off through American Pickers travels. However, their relationship began deteriorating dramatically when Frank learned of Diann having another affair while on tour for American Pickers – this led him down an destructive path and ultimately lead him back home alone with Eulalia to discover she already had someone. According to an interview conducted with The U.S. Sun in 2021 by Frank himself: -“I thought we were getting married so bought an expensive new house only then to discover she already had had another boyfriend at home!” In this 2021 interview conducted with The U.S Sun Frank revealed the heartbreak that ensued as follows :-
Frank conceded that their breakup had an immense effect on him, leading him to try drinking her away – something that had never been an issue before. Diann denied these allegations in an interview with The U.S. Sun and insisted: ”[This is not] what is said – there’s no drama or chaos going on right now; just trying to heal from my injuries right now”. They eventually separated around 2019, with Frank remaining single thereafter.
How Did Frank’s Friendship with Mike Wolfe Evolve?
Frank Fritz’s departure from American Pickers caused much speculation among fans as to a possible split with Mike Wolfe, many believing his absence signified some sort of disagreement between them; however, both individuals refrained from discussing any aspects of their friendship publicly.
After Frank announced his official exit from the show in 2021, Mike shared an emotive post on Instagram to express his thanks and show appreciation. Mike wrote of their relationship: “Frank has always been like my brother to me…” and expressed hope that Frank could find happiness as they navigated their next chapter together.
Mike was among the first public voices to express condolences following Frank’s stroke in 2022 and ask for prayers on his behalf. Their bond remained strong despite any strain caused by time or circumstance – as evidenced by Mike’s statement following Frank’s passing in 2024.
Frank Fritz passed away peacefully at age 60 on September 30, 2024 and Mike Wolfe confirmed it with an emotional Instagram post on October 1, 2024. Mike mourned their passing while also paying their tributes, remembering Frank as an extraordinary “dreamer” with an eye for art who touched many.
Mike’s post focused on their shared experiences as friends and co-hosts of American Pickers. He described their trips together, often without an explicit destination in mind, driven by their mutual passions for history and discovery. Mike marvelled that millions would follow them around on these exciting adventures! “Who could have ever predicted we’d share the cockpit of a white cargo van in front of millions watching our adventures??” he wondered aloud.
Mike expressed how much he would miss Frank and expressed his hope that Frank is now in a better place, ending with: “I love and will miss you so much, buddy,” as his closing comments.
What legacy has Frank Fritz left us?
Frank Fritz leaves an incredible legacy as one of the world’s beloved figures in antiques and collectibles. Through American Pickers, millions were introduced to the joys of picking–discovering hidden gems even in unlikely places! His commitment to history conservation combined with an approachable personality won over fans for over 10 years – which makes his passing all the more mourned by collectors everywhere.
Frank was easily relatable due to his struggles, such as fighting Crohn’s disease and going through an emotional heartbreak after parting ways with Diann. Yet through all this turmoil – his passion for antiques remained at the core of his existence alongside Mike Wolfe as his best friend.
Following his passing, Frank will be remembered not only for his contributions to American Pickers but also the joy he provided viewers and lasting friendships he formed along the way. His legacy will live on in those who share his enthusiasm for history and discovery.