Bernard R. Fritchen

Bernard “Bernie” R. Fritchen, 94, of New Milford, passed away on February 8, 2025. He was born on September 21, 1930, in Richland, Iowa, the son of William and Alvina (Weber) Fritchen. He married Janet Lee Sheetz on July 4, 1953, and together they had 5 children. Bernie grew up in rural Iowa before moving to Rockford in the 1950’s. He worked as a heavy machinery operator for Rockford Blacktop as a member of the Local 150 union, earning his 70-year pin from the union. He built homes in the New Milford area for 30+ years. He also enjoyed helping his son Gary for many years at Fritchen Nursery, interacting with the customers and selling Christmas trees. He had a sweet tooth with a love for circus peanuts and strawberries with milk and sugar. He loved football, especially watching the Chicago Bears. Bernie enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and hunting foxes and racoons. He was often seen riding around town on his beloved lawnmower. Known as a frugal man to his children, Bernie would pick up old nails and straighten them out in order to reuse them for his projects. He went to the beat of his own drum, but loved his family. He was an amazing and hard-working father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend.
He is survived by his children, Barb (Jim) Higdon, Mike (Jolyn), David, and Ben (Sarah); daughter-in-law, Nancy; 18 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; sister, Lucille (Harold) Frasier; special friends Rick McQuality and Randy (Laura); his dog, Casper ("Pooch"); and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is predeceased by his wife, Janet; son, Gary; as well as brothers Howard (Elizabeth) and Donny (Ardith).
Visitation will be on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel: 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108. A Funeral Service will be on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory with burial to follow in New Milford Cemetery.