Frank Fritz, the beloved co-host of the hit television show “American Pickers,” passed away on September 30, 2024, at the age of 60.

His unexpected death not only left his loved ones grieving but also sparked discussions about the staggering fortune he left behind.

As details emerged about his life, struggles, and the legacy he created, it became evident that Frank’s story was about much more than just money.

Born in Davenport, Iowa, Frank had a passion for collecting that began in his childhood.

This love for rare finds eventually led him to transition from a career as a fire inspector to becoming a full-time picker.

By the time “American Pickers” premiered in 2010, Frank was already a seasoned expert in scouring barns and garages for hidden treasures alongside his longtime friend and co-host, Mike Wolfe.

 

The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, turning Frank into a household name.

His charm and expertise made forgotten relics valuable again, teaching viewers that even the most unassuming items have stories worth telling.

Beyond the screen, Frank built a fortune estimated at $6 million through best-selling books and his antique shop, Frank Fritz Finds, located in Savannah, Illinois.

 

Despite his success, Frank’s life was marked by significant health challenges.

In 2022, he suffered a debilitating stroke that left him with lasting damage.

By 2024, his health had deteriorated further, exacerbated by aortic stenosis, a heart condition that complicated his recovery.

According to his death certificate, the cause of death was listed as late sequela of cerebral infarction.

 

Frank’s struggles extended beyond physical health; he battled addiction as well.

Following the end of his long-term relationship with Diane, which he described as heartbreaking, Frank turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism.

This led to a long and painful fight against addiction, with opioids becoming a significant issue in his life.

His friends, including Mike Wolfe, attempted interventions and encouraged him to seek help, but the toll of his struggles was profound.

 

Frank and Mike’s friendship faced significant challenges, especially as fame and success began to drive a wedge between them.

By 2021, their relationship had reached a low point, with Frank publicly accusing Mike of turning “American Pickers” into a one-man show.

However, after Frank’s stroke, the two men found a way to reconnect.

By 2023, they were talking again, and when Frank’s health took a turn for the worse, Mike was by his side in his final moments.

 

In those last hours, the anger and distance that had characterized their relationship faded away.

Mike held Frank’s hand and whispered comforting words, helping to bring closure to their friendship.

This poignant moment highlighted the depth of their bond, reminding us that true friendship can endure even the toughest trials.

 

With Frank’s passing, questions arose about what would happen to his substantial fortune.

He had the foresight to file his will on October 23, 2023, a year before his death.

His will was sealed, leaving many to wonder who would inherit his estate.

Reports indicated that his conservator, Midwest One Bank, was also named the executor of his estate, ensuring that his financial matters were handled with care.

Frank’s estate included a vast collection of antiques, vintage motorcycles, and memorabilia, which had not been fully inventoried at the time of his death.

Plans were reportedly in place to preserve most of these items, with select pieces intended to stock his antique shop.

However, the specifics of his will remain a mystery, leading to speculation about whether his friends or family would benefit from his fortune.

 

Despite his significant wealth, Frank’s financial situation was complicated by the high costs of medical care.

Following his stroke, he was spending an astonishing $30,000 per month on healthcare, amounting to around $360,000 per year.

These expenses covered around-the-clock nursing, physical therapy, and ongoing treatments for Crohn’s disease and aortic stenosis.

Although his Iowa farmhouse had appreciated in value, reaching nearly $400,000 by 2024, it was not enough to offset his mounting medical bills.

Frank Fritz’s legacy extends far beyond his financial worth.

His life was a testament to resilience, passion, and the importance of pursuing what you love.

He shared his struggles openly, making him one of the most relatable figures on television.

Even after leaving “American Pickers” in 2020, his influence remained strong through his antique store and the plans for future auctions of his prized collection.

 

Fans of Frank will have the opportunity to own a piece of his history, ensuring that his lifelong passion continues to inspire others.

He taught us that life is about what you put into it, and his dedication to his work and friendships exemplified this philosophy.

 

Frank Fritz may have left behind a fortune, but his true legacy lies in the lessons he imparted to those around him.

His story is one of triumph and struggle, highlighting the complexities of life, friendship, and the pursuit of passion.

As we reflect on his life, we are reminded that while wealth can come and go, the impact we have on others and the memories we create endure forever.

Frank’s spirit will continue to live on through the treasures he unearthed, the friendships he cherished, and the resilience he embodied.

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Frank Fritz the Beloved co-host of American Pickers passed away on September 30th 2024 at 60 but it wasn’t just his Unexpected death that shook his loved ones it was the Staggering Fortune he left behind sparking tears tensions and a few surprises before we get to that let’s rewind Frank spent his life on the road uncovering forgotten Treasures only to become one himself his health had been declining for years a stroke in 2022 left lasting damage and by 2024 his body couldn’t recover according to TMZ his death certificate listed the

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cause as late sequella of cerebral infarction he was also battling aortic stenosis a heart condition that made things even worse even the strongest Pickers can’t haggle with fate but Frank’s story wasn’t just about struggle it was also about Redemption especially when it came to his longtime friend and co-host Mike Wolf the two had been Inseparable since middle school but Fame drove a wedge between them by 2021 their friendship had hit rock bottom Frank publicly accused Mike of turning American Pickers into a one-man show

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saying the show is tilted towards him 1,000% then came the twist no one saw coming after Frank’s stroke they reconnected by 2023 they were talking again and when the end came Mike wasn’t about to let his friend go without making things right I got the call that he wasn’t doing well Mike told people I just feel blessed that I was able to get there he was by Frank’s side in his final hour holding his hand rubbing his chest when Frank took his last breath Mike gently closed his eyes the anger was gone the distance didn’t matter two