Riley John Fritzen, 22, of Laramie, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2020 at Ivinson Memorial Hospital. He was born in Garden City, KS on April 16, 1998 to Brian and Sheila (Howe) Fritzen. He had a heart transplant when he was 4 months old. He was a fighter and was able to overcome many, many obstacles that allowed him to live his life to the fullest. He certainly made the most of the 22 years that he had before his heart could not keep up with him anymore. Riley grew up in Laramie. He attended Eastern Wyoming College and Laramie County Community College. He was currently working as a delivery driver at Jimmy Johns where he thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and his coworkers..
Growing up in Wyoming he enjoyed being outdoors. Some of his favorite activities included: camping, fishing, water skiing, snow skiing, and snowboarding. He also loved travelling and exploring new places. He was looking forward to a trip to Puerto Rico at the end of this month during which he and friends were planning on learning to surf and hiking through the Rain Forest.
He cherished spending time with family and friends. Everyone who knew Riley, knew how big his heart was and how much he cared about those in his life. His love and patience for his two-year old niece Brielle was evident and everybody who witnessed their interactions commented on their unique connection. He made friends very easily and quickly endeared himself to all who met him.
He is preceded in death by his grandfather, Charles Howe; his great grandparents; and Uncle, Bryan Howe.
He is survived by his parents, Brian and Sheila Fritzen; his sister Bailey and brother in law Michael Schmit; his niece, Brielle. and grandparents, Donald and Mary Lynn Fritzen and Mike and Sharon Havely; his aunts and uncles, Ben Fritzen, and Julie and Larry Eaton; and his cousins, Sydney and Jayce Eaton.
Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 7th at Snowy Range Evangelical Free Church at 2 pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to Give Kids the World Village, https://www.gktw.org/index.php.
Our deepest sympathies for the loss of your son. Godspeed Riley.
Brian, Mary Kay and I want to offer our deepest sympathy and condolences. You and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers.
My deepest sympathy Brian to you and your family.
Thoughts and prayers with the family
All our love, thoughts, & prayers to all of you. There simply are no words to help ease the pain. May time, love, & found memories help over time. Charlie & Debbie Fanning
To the entire Fritzen family, I'm so sorry for your loss. May God wrap you in his arms during this difficult time.
Thoughts and prayers to all family members of this fine young man!!
We have so many fond memories of Riley. He always had a smile and was kind to everyone. Such an amazing guy. He will be missed by all. Our deepest sympathies to Brian, Sheila and Bailey. You are all in our prayers. The Sullivan’s
Our deepest sympathy to Brian, Sheila and family! You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time! Jody, Joey, and ChyAnna Eaton
Riley was a very special young man and I feel so privileged to have known him. You have my deepest sympathy! Dicksie R. May
Mary Lynn and Don: Our deepest sympathy for the loss of Your grandson. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and Brian and Shelia. Many blessing for comfort sent
Sheila- this hurts me so much to read of Riley’s passing. I think back to watching him grow in his early years and he overcame a lot! So sad that this was sudden. I would have loved to attend his services but am out of town. I just want you to know how much I love and think of your family. You’re in my prayers! Dr. Anderson
My deepest sympathy goes out to Brian and Sheila. I have known them forever and worked with Sheila. I want them to know that I hope he gets to take that trip in Heaven now. It's always very hard on parents when they loose a child. I am keeping you both in my thoughts. Always, your friend Vicki H.