A beloved figure from the world of antique collecting has left fans in mourning.
The New York Post reported that Frank Fritz, a star of the popular reality show "American Pickers," passed away on September 30, 2024, at the age of 60.
According to Fritz's death certificate, obtained by TMZ, the television personality succumbed to "late sequela of cerebral infarction," which is more commonly known as a stroke.
The document also indicated that Fritz's stroke was brought on by cerebral vascular disease, a group of conditions affecting blood flow and blood vessels in the brain.
The reality star's health struggles were not limited to stroke-related issues. The death certificate revealed that Fritz also suffered from aortic stenosis, a chronic condition that can restrict blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body.
Additionally, he had been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which affects the airways and lungs, making breathing difficult.
These additional health conditions were listed as contributing factors to Fritz's death, painting a picture of the complex medical challenges he faced in his later years. The revelation of these multiple health issues has given fans a deeper understanding of the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Fritz's longtime friend and co-star, Mike Wolfe, shared the news of his death on social media, expressing his grief and reflecting on their shared experiences.
Wolfe wrote:
It's with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night. I've [known] Frank for more then half my life and what you've seen on TV has always been what I have seen, a dreamer who was just as sensitive as he was funny. The same off camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself.
Fritz and Wolfe had been co-hosts of "American Pickers" since its inception in 2010. The show followed the duo as they traveled across the United States, searching for rare artifacts and treasures to sell in antique shops or add to their personal collections. Their on-screen chemistry and shared passion for discovering hidden gems made the show a hit with audiences.
The History Channel and Cineflix Production, the producers of "American Pickers," released a joint statement acknowledging Fritz's contributions to the show and expressing their condolences. They referred to Fritz as "the bearded charmer" and praised his "never-ending search for vintage motorcycles and bikes."
Fritz's last appearance on "American Pickers" was during Season 21. He was later replaced by Wolfe's brother, Rob, marking the end of an era for longtime fans of the show.
Frank Fritz's passing marks the end of a notable career in reality television and antique collecting. His death was caused by complications from a stroke, with additional health issues contributing to his decline. Fritz's legacy as a beloved figure on "American Pickers" and his impact on the antique collecting community will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
