Raymond “Otto” F. Fritzen, Sr., 83, passed peacefully at home surrounded by family on February 1, 2021. Raymond was born in the “skunk city” section of Syracuse and grew up on the West end. He resided in North Syracuse most of his life before moving to East Syracuse last year. Raymond was a graduate of the Most Holy Rosary High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Syracuse University.
Raymond served in the Army National Guard during the 1960’s. He retired in 1999 as a manager after 20+ years at Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency in Syracuse. He was an avid bowler who played on several leagues in the area and enjoyed golfing especially at Tanner Valley and Orchard Valley Golf Courses. Raymond loved reading, jazz and walked at least 3-4 miles each day. He was a member of JASS Jazz Appreciation Society and a communicant of St. Margaret’s Church.
Raymond is survived by his wife, Barbara; his five children and their spouses: Kathy and Bob Pickert of Virginia Beach, VA, Karen Albanese of Liverpool, Kerry and Dave Osinski of North Syracuse, Kim and Troy Shambaugh of East Syracuse, Ray and Andrea Fritzen of Merrick, NY; his sister, Mary Bonner of Greene, NY; his 9 wonderful grandchildren whom he loved spending time with: Jonathan, Chris, Emily, Joe, Hannah, Abby, Kenzie, Raymond, and Max; 2 great grandchildren, Bella and Aurora; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The rest of the family is so appreciative of Kim, Troy, Abby and Kenzie and the staff of Hospice of CNY for providing such caring respite for Ray during his final days for the past 1-1/2 years.
Contributions in Raymond’s memory may be made to Hospice of CNY at www.hospicecny.org
His memory will be cherished by all that loved him, and he’ll forever live in our hearts. Services will be private.