Book of Memories for Thomas Jefferson "Tom" Fritzlan

Condolence From Vic Zang

Thu, 01 May 2014 09:57:56 EDT

We have many great memories with my dad aka "grandpa". The best memories were when our kids were little. Coy and Kaylea were his shadows he and Coy would irrigate together and Kaylea would drive the tractor while he fed. Many times I would have to look the other way and pray because there were times that he believed they were capable of doing more at there age then I did. But, they lived, learned and loved what was a giant of a man to them. Both of them went to Hunting camp and helped since they were barely old enough to walk. Kaylea supervising and Coy the trusty camp guide on ol" Becky the sound palomino that was the best baby sitter anyone would be lucky to have. Those were the good old days; even when things began to change the best part remains in their hearts for ever. Like the song says, We could of missed the pain but we would of had to miss the dance. The very best things in life are truly not "THINGS". THANX DADDY we raised some dang good kids together; Rod you and I. We got the best part of you. Hugz your favorite daughter....

Condolence From Mary Cosepalmer

Fri, 25 Apr 2014 09:22:58 EDT

Sad to learn Mr Fritzlan has left this Earth. He was a hard worker with a tough exterior that belied his generous and soft heart. I have always been grateful for the kindness he and Vi bestowed on my Uncle Jim and Aunt Jean Butler after Uncle Jim's accident that broke Uncle Jim's neck. That was the kind of unsung heroic acts that were typical of them. Truly we have lost one of the strong folks that made western Colorado the best place in the world I could have been raised! To his family I want you to know that I am praying for you to be comforted and have peace. He left a piece of himself in each of you. Blessings are wished for all who love him.

Story shared: My heros have always been cowboys

Thu, 17 Apr 2014 23:09:08 EDT

I first met Tom Fritzlan at the age of 14 when Tom's grandson Cole and I became friends. Though our families had known each other for years, I had not been close to or even known the Fritzlans. But for Cole and I, the stories of our families together preceeded our fiendship and the tough reputations of the two patriarchs Tom Fritzlan and Dink Lenard. Tom had an aura surrounding him that was very distinct the day I walked up to him and introduced myself as he sat beneath a shade tree on a swing. He wasnt a large man, but when he offered his hand in friendship I realized the shear size and strength of his hands were undeniable. He grabbed my hand gently and then reached down and gave me a hard pinch on my leg! I wanted to scream like a girl, but I didnt want to show any signs of weakness. Since then I have endoured many Fritzlan pinches as it seems as though it is a family trait. Tom lived in an era that will never be again. It was a time of selfless hard work and self reliance that seems to be vacant in the world today. Tom would work a whole shift at the mill and then commence to shoe 20 or so head of horses. All in a days work. Tom was a man one could immediately admire. He was tough, gritty, hard working, true and he had a wonderful sense of humor . Tom Fritzlan was a cowboy, and my heros have always been cowboys, and they still are it seems. Thanks Tom, for being a man to look up to, and for the stories handed down for a couple of youngsters to have purpose for fulfillment.

Condolence From Casey (Mangold) Ice

Thu, 17 Apr 2014 18:11:07 EDT

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Fritzlan's passing. You all treated me so kindly when I lived in Rifle and that is something I will never forget. My prayers are with you all!

Condolence From Edna

Thu, 17 Apr 2014 13:37:56 EDT

Grandpa Tom will truly be missed by all that knew him. We will miss that ornery side and that strong hand. What memories at rodeos and at his and Vi's house. We will miss him always. Alice, Edna, Codie, Penny and family, Regina, Shawnee

Photo shared: BOM_pic.jpg

Thu, 17 Apr 2014 13:14:59 EDT

Condolence From Kym Bevan

Thu, 17 Apr 2014 12:21:10 EDT

Tom did have a soft spot for his grandkids and all of the kids who rodeoed. Another era gone.