SAD ANNIVERSARY American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s dad and friends to battle over his $6m estate at trial one year after his death

by Teresa Roca

AMERICAN Pickers star Frank Fritz’s dad and friends are heading to trial in a nasty battle over his $6 million estate one year after his death. 

Frank died on September 30 at age 60, two years after he suffered a stroke that left him debilitated, and under a conservatorship and guardianship controlled by his close friends

Frank filed a “will prior to death” in October 2023, as an Iowa judge approved the American Pickers star’s final wishes weeks after his death. 

But Frank’s dad, Bill Fritz, contested the will in February 2025, claiming to The U.S. Sun that the documents are “fake.”

Now, The U.S. Sun can exclusively reveal the parties are preparing to continue the battle at trial one year after his death. 

A source told The U.S. Sun, “A trial date is set for November 2026.”

In court papers viewed by The U.S. Sun, which have been sealed to the public, Bill “must show that he is entitled to relief.”

The documents continue that Bill “alleges Fritz’s decision-making capacity was so impaired that he was unable to make, communicate or carry out important decisions concerning his own financial affairs.”

Bill must show Frank “did not understand the nature of the will” and that the injuries, meaning compensation, suffered “will be worse than the injuries the estate will beneficiaries will suffer.”

The next step in the case is for the parties to turn over evidence and witnesses. 

Bill told The U.S. Sun of the proceedings, “Looking for the trial to fight the fake will that was written.

"I feel sure that I will win this case. The will was totally fake. The people that are doing it were just people that helped him.

"I had a good relationship with him. And they're just trying to get in on something that they shouldn't."

A source from Frank’s friends trying to block the will from Bill said the reality star did understand the terms of the will.

The insider claimed, “Frank understood language, but struggled to form words or speak fluently. This was from his stroke.

"Frank found different ways to communicate for sure to everyone around him. The more you were around him, the easier it was.”

A lawyer for Bill did not respond to The U.S. Sun's request for comment.
COURT WAR

The Des Moines Register reported in February 2025 that Frank’s father Bill filed to challenge the will. 

The local outlet claimed Bill is challenging the will on the grounds of the judge’s finding that Frank “does not have the capacity to execute any legal documents on his own behalf.” 

He also claims the will was not properly signed or witnessed. 

The case has officially been sealed to the public, as only the parties involved have access to the information. 

Frank’s dad previously told The U.S. Sun of his decision to fight for his son’s estate, “It is a fake will. He did not have a will. He did not sign it.

“I am his only loved one. I am his only survivor. None of them are related to him. I am the only relation he has.

“All the others are trying to get money. They are nothing but people who worked for him.”

Bill went on to explain his "close" relationship with Frank through the years, including summers spent deep sea fishing at his home in Saint Thomas. 

Bill’s social media page features throwback photos of the father and son on vacation and at events together. 

But Frank’s friends are insisting his father was barely there during his health struggles.

A source close to Frank involved in the fight to protect the estate from Bill, told The U.S. Sun at the time, “He’s asking for the whole estate. He wants the will to be thrown out so his money will go to the nearest relative, which is Bill. 

“His father had very little to do with Frank. He only came to see Frank once when he suffered the stroke.”

The insider insisted the will is “valid,” despite Bill’s claims.

The source explained how while there were “some concerns about Frank’s mind” when he suffered the stroke, he “made all of the decisions” a brief time after therapy. 

The insider continued to claim, “He was making all decisions himself. It was the guardian’s responsibility to carry out Frank’s wishes, which I assure you he did.

“The courts have already accepted it. They just have to accept it again now."

The source even claimed Bill was offered a role in the guardianship since he was Frank’s only living relative, but he allegedly “refused.”

Bill did not comment to The U.S. Sun on why he was not involved in the guardianship.

“He could have come up at any time to declare him and didn’t,” the insider said, as Frank’s friends took on the responsibility. 

The insider added, "Just because Bill is blood does not mean he has the right to take away Frank's last wishes."

Frank’s estate includes his fortune, belongings such as his vast motorcycle collection, countless rare antiques and his $155,000 Iowa farmhouse. 

The Des Moines Register estimated his estate to be around $6 million. 

CONSERVATORSHIP

Frank suffered the stroke at his Iowa farmhouse in July 2022. 

The U.S. Sun broke in August 2022 that loved ones filed a conservatorship and guardianship on behalf of Frank. 

His friend Chris Davis acted as the guardian, while MidWestOne Bank is the conservator. 

The documents obtained by The U.S. Sun read, “Because of his stroke, Mr. Fritz’s decision­-making capacity is so impaired that he is unable to care for his own safety or to provide for necessities such as food, shelter, clothing, or medical care without which physical injury or illness may occur."

Frank was also unable to "make, communicate, or carry out important decisions concerning his own financial affairs.”

An exhibit was filed in the court papers from a doctor, claiming Frank does not have decisional capacity.

The legal papers continued, “Decisions must be made for Mr. Fritz’s care and placement while he continues to recover and receive treatment for his injuries. 

“Appointment of a guardian and conservator is necessary to avoid immediate harm to him.”

The Initial Plan filed by MidWestOne Bank mentioned his assets. 

The court papers read, “Mr. Fritz is a well-known collector and has numerous outbuildings full of valuable collections. 

“The conservator has not yet inventoried those items but plans to leave them largely as they are now, with the exception of stocking Mr. Fritz’s antique store in Savanna, IL as needed. 

The documents revealed Frank's annual income of $60,000 from “investments,” per his 2021 tax return. 

Frank was unemployed at the time of his stroke and had no debt listed. 

SAYING GOODBYE

While memorial plans for Frank, which include driving his ashes through Iowa’s Quad Cities on a motorcycle for one last ride, are on hold because of the court battle, the American Pickers star's loved ones came together for a dedication for him on Memorial Day Weekend.

Frank's good friend and owner of his store Frank Fritz Finds, Jerry Gendreau, told The U.S. Sun multiple bands the late star “knew and loved” performed as friends crowded the street of his store. 

In addition to the celebration, Jerry opened a bar down the street from the store called Man Cave to be dedicated to Frank.

The bar features a theater in the back that will run clips of Frank, his personal motorcycles on display and photographs hung on the walls.

PICKERS FAME

Frank left American Pickers in 2020 to undergo back surgery.

He never returned and was officially let go from the series in 2021.

Frank revealed his feud with co-star Mike during an interview with The U.S. Sun in 2021.

Mike, 60, and Frank made up during his health issues when they reunited over Memorial Day Weekend of 2023.

Mike and loved ones were by his side in hospice when he passed.

The show now stars Mike, Robbie Wolfe, Jon "Jersey" Szalay and Danielle Colby. 

Full Article & Source:
SAD ANNIVERSARY American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s dad and friends to battle over his $6m estate at trial one year after his death 

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“It Is a Fake Will”: Late ‘American Pickers’ Host’s Will Dispute Takes a Shocking Turn

By Teguan Harris 

The dispute regarding the late American Pickers star’s will has now reached new heights. The U.S. Sun previously reported that Frank Fritz’s lawyer filed a “will prior to death” to “safe keep” the document in October 2023, and a certificate was issued for approval of the will on October 18 2024, after Fritz’s passing. However, Fritz’s father, Bill Fritz, claims to the publication that the will was fake.

The former American Pickers host passed away on September 30 after health complications from a stroke he had in 2022. Four months after his tragic passing, a friend of Frank's challenged his will and demanded a trial to determine Frank’s estate. With Bill’s claims that the will was fake, the challenge for his will is tougher. Frank’s father, Bill Fritz, expressed his concerns to The U.S. Sun: “It is a fake will. He did not have a will. He did not sign it. I am his only loved one. I am his only survivor. None of them are related to him. I am the only relation he has," Bill continued to raise skepticism towards other parties. “All the others are trying to get money. They are nothing but people who worked for him.”

The Late 'American Pickers' Star’s Father is Now Challenging The Will

Bill revealed to The U.S. Sun that he and his son were close, despite Frank’s friend’s claims that he was barely involved in his son’s life. Bill revealed that he and Frank would spend summers deep sea fishing at his home in Saint Thomas. He then tells the publication, “I am requesting the entire state.” The U.S. Sun reported that the late American Pickers star is estimated to have had a net worth of $6 million. His estate includes his fortune, his motorcycle collection, several rare antiques, and his $155,000 Iowa farmhouse.

According to a conversation between the Des Moines Register and Bill’s lawyer Cory Gourley, Bill was removed from “all access to Frank.” “They simply prevent Bill from having any contact with Frank whatsoever,” the lawyer claimed. “They don’t tell him where he is, they don’t tell him where they’re taking him, and they don’t even allow them to have phone contact.”

Frank Fritz’s Friend Fights Back Against Bill’s Claims

A source that is fighting to protect Frank’s estate from Bill dismisses Bill’s claims that the will was fake. “He’s asking for the whole estate. He wants the will to be thrown out so his money will go to the nearest relative, which is Bill,” the source revealed to The U.S. Sun.

“His father had very little to do with Frank. He only came to see Frank once when he suffered the stroke.”

The source then claims that they tried to get Bill involved in the guardianship, but he allegedly refused. “He could have come up at any time to declare him and didn’t,” the insider said, praising Frank’s “amazing friends” who took on the responsibility. "If there is no will, what is he contesting? Just because Bill is blood does not mean he has the right to take away Frank's last wishes." The source also disputes the claim that Bill was removed from access to Frank, stating, “It was not the responsibility of the guardian to contact Bill with any information in regards to where he was. His medical status andhis responsibilities were to Frank, not to Bill. We didn’t disregard Frank’s dad, he just rarely asked about him.”

Regarding Frank’s decision about his will, the source said, “he was making all decisions himself.” “It was the guardian’s responsibility to carry out Frank’s wishes, which I assure you he did. The courts have already accepted it. They just have to accept it again now." Bill’s lawyer Gourley revealed that he has “filed a petition on behalf of Frank’s family challenging the validity of that will.” ““We believe the evidence will ultimately show that the will is invalid for at least one if not multiple reasons,” he stated. “The case is relatively new and will now proceed to be litigated in District Court.” American Pickers airs on the History Channel.

Full Article & Source:
“It Is a Fake Will”: Late ‘American Pickers’ Host’s Will Dispute Takes a Shocking Turn

See Also:
American Pickers star Frank Fritz's friend challenges his will four months after his death

FRANK'S KEEPSAKES American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s antiques including his motorcycle collection to be auctioned off after tragic death

'American Pickers' star Frank Fritz dead at 60

FRANK'S FIGHT American Pickers’ Frank Fritz relies on ‘long-term nursing care’ after stroke as conservator demands access to his funds

Judge Rules On ‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz Conservatorship

AMERICAN PICKERS STAR FRANK FRITZ'S JUDGE MAKES MAJOR RULING IN DEMAND TO SEAL HEALTH & FINANCIAL RECORDS AFTER STROKE

‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz Conservatorship In Danger

RIGHT PATH American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator files new financial plan as he recovers from debilitating stroke

American Pickers' Frank Fritz Still Under A Conservatorship, But There's Been An Update

PICKING PRIVACY American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator begs judge to seal his financial records and location amid his recovery

CONSERVATOR CHAOS American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator at risk of removal by judge after star suffers debilitating stroke

PAY UP American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s conservatorship lawyer demands to be paid $2K for his services in tragic case

Frank Fritz, of 'American Pickers,' under guardianship after stroke

FRANK'S FATE American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s judge makes major ruling in conservatorship case after star suffers from stroke

American Pickers star Frank Fritz's friend challenges his will four months after his death

The will of American Pickers star Frank Fritz, who died on September 30, 2024, at age 60 following a stroke in 2022, is being challenged by a friend of the late reality star

By Natalie HunterDeputy TV & Showbiz Editor & Kathleen O'Boyle

The estate of late American Pickers star Frank Fritz is now the center of a heated legal battle after his tragic passing. A close friend of the star has contested his will, demanding a trial to determine the fate of his $6 million fortune.

This comes just four months after Frank's death at age 60, following a stroke in 2022. The will had been filed prior to the American Pickers star's death in October 2023 for safekeeping and was approved shortly after his passing.

However, the case took a twist when the friend's attorney officially entered the fray in December. On February 3, 2025, a petition was filed to invalidate the will entirely. As the case is sealed, the public remains unaware of the details. Before his death, Frank, who suffered a debilitating stroke at his Iowa farmhouse, was under conservatorship due to impaired decision-making abilities.

In an unfortunate turn of events, a guardianship has been set up for the History Channel personality, with his pal Chris Davis stepping in as guardian and MidWestOne Bank taking on the role of conservator. Court documents highlighted the severity of his condition, revealing that after suffering a stroke, he could no longer take care of himself or manage his impressive collection of antiques, reports the Express US.

The papers stated: "Because of his stroke, Mr. Fritz's decision-making capacity is so impaired that he is unable to care for his own safety or to provide for necessities such as food, shelter, clothing, or medical care without which physical injury or illness may occur."

Friend and antique aficionado Jerry Gendreau is already prepping for what’s expected to be a blockbuster auction of Frank's treasured items, given his strong fan following. "That's what I would do because of his fan base, I think he'll do really, really well with an auction," Jerry had expressed to The .us. Sun.

Additionally, visitors to Frank’s Savanna, Illinois establishment, known as Frank Fritz Finds, might soon witness a special display, potentially featuring Frank’s cherished motorcycles. "We may display motorcycles and choppers that represent Frank," said Jerry, hinting at the possibility of a transformation to highlight these gems within his store, currently styled as a quaint 1880s general store.

"Right now it's set up as an 1880s general store. Maybe they'll be bikes on a rack all the way down the center."

Full Article & Source:
American Pickers star Frank Fritz's friend challenges his will four months after his death

See Also:
FRANK'S KEEPSAKES American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s antiques including his motorcycle collection to be auctioned off after tragic death

'American Pickers' star Frank Fritz dead at 60

FRANK'S FIGHT American Pickers’ Frank Fritz relies on ‘long-term nursing care’ after stroke as conservator demands access to his funds

Judge Rules On ‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz Conservatorship

AMERICAN PICKERS STAR FRANK FRITZ'S JUDGE MAKES MAJOR RULING IN DEMAND TO SEAL HEALTH & FINANCIAL RECORDS AFTER STROKE

‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz Conservatorship In Danger

RIGHT PATH American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator files new financial plan as he recovers from debilitating stroke

American Pickers' Frank Fritz Still Under A Conservatorship, But There's Been An Update

PICKING PRIVACY American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator begs judge to seal his financial records and location amid his recovery

CONSERVATOR CHAOS American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator at risk of removal by judge after star suffers debilitating stroke

PAY UP American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s conservatorship lawyer demands to be paid $2K for his services in tragic case

Frank Fritz, of 'American Pickers,' under guardianship after stroke

FRANK'S FATE American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s judge makes major ruling in conservatorship case after star suffers from stroke

‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz’s Will Disputed In Court

By Shawn Lealos

American Pickers star Frank Fritz died last September, two years after suffering a debilitating stroke in July 2022. However, over four months after his death, a lawyer filed a challenge to Frank’s will. The lawsuit wants a trial to determine the fate of Frank’s estate.

Here is what you need to know about the upcoming legal battle.

Frank Fritz’s Will Facing Legal Challenge

Frank died in September 2024, and Frank’s lawyer filed a “will prior to death” to “safe-keep” the document in October 2023, a year after his stroke (via The U.S. Sun). A certificate was issued to approve the will three weeks after Frank died. However, one of Frank’s friends had an attorney enter an appearance on her behalf in December.

In February, a different attorney filed a Petition in Probate to “set aside will and jury demand.” Technically, this means that the attorney wants the courts to invalidate Frank’s will. However, there are no open records of the arguments behind this as the case was “sealed,” and documents are not available to the public.

Frank’s net worth when he died was around $6 million.

After Frank’s stroke in July 2022, his loved ones filed a conservatorship and guardianship to protect Frank’s health and finances. His friend Chris Davis served as the guardian, and MidWestOne Bank was the conservator. There was also a paper shared in the case at that time that Frank did not have decisional capacity.

“Decisions must be made for Mr. Fritz’s care and placement while he continues to recover and receive treatment for his injuries,” the legal papers read. “Appointment of a guardian and conservator is necessary to avoid immediate harm to him.”

What Happens Next With Frank Fritz’s Will & Net Worth?

Frank owned Frank Fritz Finds in Savannah, Illinois. This included a huge category of items as well as several outbuildings. The court papers listed his annual income of $60,000 from investments, and he was unemployed at the time with no debts listed under his name.

Frank’s long-time friend Jerry Gendreau said there would be an auction for all his antiques. Jerry said this should go well thanks to all of Frank’s fans, and it would spread out these valuables to people who loved and followed the reality TV star. Jerry also said that Frank’s story inside Hawgdogs would remain operational.

It is unclear what will happen with Frank’s will and his fortune. The main argument, it seems, is that the will was made after the stroke when Frank was no longer able to make his own legal decisions. It will come down to who updated the will and whether they legally could do so.

Full Article & Source:
‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz’s Will Disputed In Court

FRANK'S KEEPSAKES American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s antiques including his motorcycle collection to be auctioned off after tragic death

by Teresa Roca

AMERICAN Pickers star Frank Fritz’s antiques will be auctioned off after he tragically passed away two years after suffering a debilitating stroke.

Frank died at age 60 on September 30 with loved ones, including longtime friend and co-star Mike Wolfe by his side.

Frank Fritz with his motorcycle collection at his Davenport, Iowa farmhouse in 2021Credit: Coleman-Rayner

Frank Fritz's friend said the star's motorcycles will be auctioned offCredit: Coleman-Rayner

Frank was a longtime collector of motorcycles, vintage signs and other antiques, as he even owned antique store Frank Fritz Finds in Savanna, Illinois. 

In an exclusive interview with The U.S. Sun, Frank’s longtime friend Jerry Gendreau revealed what will happen to the American Pickers star's beloved antiques. 

“They’re going to have an auction.

"That’s what I would do because of his fan base, I think he’ll do really, really well with an auction.”

In 2021, The U.S. Sun photographed Frank at his $155,000 Iowa farmhouse in Davenport, Iowa. 

In one of Frank’s outhouses on the property, Frank showed off rows of motorcycles from his personal collection.

Through the years, viewers of American Pickers have watched Frank purchase items from vintage signs to antique mannequins. 

Jerry previously told The U.S. Sun some of the bikes will be displayed at his store.

Frank Fritz Finds is located in the back room of Jerry’s bar, Hawgdogs, in Savanna, Illinois.

Jerry told The U.S. Sun in October, “We have been an antique store for 35 years. We’ll probably continue to be that. 

“We may display motorcycles and choppers that represent Frank. 

“Right now it’s set up as an 1880s general store. Maybe they’ll be bikes on a rack all the way down the center.

"We’re trying to contemplate what other people want me to do.”

Frank Fritz Finds sells small antiques from $35 oil cans to a $30 vintage typewriter. 

Frank wasn’t as involved in the business after he suffered the stroke in July 2022 at his Iowa home.

Frank Fritz was also the owner of many pricy antique signsCredit: Coleman-Rayner

Frank Fritz's store Frank Fritz Finds is located in Savanna, IllinoisCredit: News Enterprises Inc

CONSERVATORSHIP

Frank’s friends filed an emergency appointment of a temporary guardian and conservator for the star on August 18, claiming his “decision­-making capacity is so impaired” from the stroke.  

The conservatorship papers obtained by The U.S. Sun revealed plans for the store during his health battle.

The Initial Plan filed by conservator MidWestOne Bank read, “Mr. Fritz is a well-known collector and has numerous outbuildings full of valuable collections. 

“The conservator has not yet inventoried those items but plans to leave them largely as they are now, with the exception of stocking Mr. Fritz’s antique store in Savanna, IL as needed. 

“Conservator is hopeful [Frank] will be able to participate in selection and pricing of items as he did previously.”

Frank Fritz's Conservatorship

Frank Fritz was placed under a conservatorship in August 2022, just weeks after he suffered a stroke.

• Frank's conservator is MidWestOne Bank and is in charge of his finances
• The bank agreed to invest Frank's money and collections to generate income
• The guardian is his good friend Chris Davis
• Chris is responsible for helping Frank manage his Crohn's disease treatment, go to physical therapy, grocery shop, cook and more day-to-day tasks
• The conservatorship also agreed to help replenish Frank's Iowa antique store, Frank Fritz Finds
• A wheel-chair ramp and more have been installed in his Iowa home under the conservatorship

LEAVING PICKERS

Frank left American Pickers in 2020 to undergo back surgery.

He never returned and was officially let go in 2021, despite fan outrage over the cast shakeup.

Mike's brother Robbie replaced Frank on the show, while Jon "Jersey Jon" Szalay later became a full-time cast member.

Frank revealed his feud with Mike, 59, during an interview with The U.S. Sun in 2021.

Frank said, “I haven’t talked to Mike in two years. He knew my back was messed up, but he didn’t call me up and ask how I was doing. That’s just how it is.

"The show is tilted towards him 1,000 percent. I can’t even bend that far down to show you how much.

"That’s fine. It’s like you’ve got Aerosmith, and there’s Steven Tyler, and he’s the frontman. 

“I found my spot, I’m second and he’s number one on the show. That’s no problem with me, maybe he does have a problem.”

FINAL YEARS

The stroke left Frank wheelchair-bound, as he was in rehabilitation.

“He can walk, but he’s always going to need the wheelchair because he can’t walk long distances,” a source previously told The U.S. Sun in August 2023.

“Basically, you lose motion. He lost motion. A stroke can affect your left or your right side, it affected his right side.”

Jerry previously gave insight into Frank's health struggles in the months before his passing.

“He felt really, really bad," he told previously The U.S. Sun.

"You would go to see him in the nursing home and one-half of his body was completely done. He would lift his arm up and it would just drop.

"That’s got to be tough to be totally bedridden.”

Jerry explained how Frank grew “frustrated” because he “couldn’t come out and say what he wanted to say,” though some days were "much, much better than others.”

“I’ve seen this when people get tired, they get tired. I think if you don’t have the will to live, you won’t," Jerry said.

“I think Frank could’ve lived a lot longer if the will to live would’ve been there.”

Mike and Frank ended their feud during his health issues and reunited over Memorial Day Weekend of 2023.

Mike was by his side in hospice when he passed, along with other loved ones. 

Frank Fritz passed away on September 30, two years after suffering a strokeCredit: American Pickers on The History Channel/Facebook

Full Article & Source:
FRANK'S KEEPSAKES American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s antiques including his motorcycle collection to be auctioned off after tragic death

See Also:
'American Pickers' star Frank Fritz dead at 60

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Judge Rules On ‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz Conservatorship

AMERICAN PICKERS STAR FRANK FRITZ'S JUDGE MAKES MAJOR RULING IN DEMAND TO SEAL HEALTH & FINANCIAL RECORDS AFTER STROKE

‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz Conservatorship In Danger

RIGHT PATH American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator files new financial plan as he recovers from debilitating stroke

American Pickers' Frank Fritz Still Under A Conservatorship, But There's Been An Update

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CONSERVATOR CHAOS American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator at risk of removal by judge after star suffers debilitating stroke

PAY UP American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s conservatorship lawyer demands to be paid $2K for his services in tragic case

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FRANK'S FATE American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s judge makes major ruling in conservatorship case after star suffers from stroke

'American Pickers' star Frank Fritz dead at 60

Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz starred on 'American Pickers'

By Lauryn Overhultz

Frank Fritz has died, Fox News Digital can confirm.

"We are saddened to share that our friend and beloved member of The HISTORY Channel and ‘American Pickers’ family, Frank Fritz, has passed away on September 30, 2024," The History Channel and Cineflex Productions shared in a statement with Fox News Digital. "Frank filmed ‘American Pickers’ for over a decade. We will always remember ‘the bearded charmer’ and his never-ending search for vintage motorcycles and bikes. Our thoughts are with Frank’s loved ones during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed."

His former co-star Mike Wolfe also posted about the "American Pickers" star's death on Instagram. "It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night," he wrote.

"I’ve [known] Frank for more [than] 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." 

Danielle Colby, who also stars in "American Pickers," shared a tribute to the Midwestern native.

"Frank, I will miss your ability to make everyone laugh, your love for talking tattoos, your epic collections but what I will miss the most are those little glimpses of vulnerability from time to time," Colby wrote on Instagram. "Frank, you loved your cat and your momma and we bonded on those things. You will be missed for all of these reasons and so many more."

Fritz suffered a stroke in 2022 and had been recovering.

"I have been very private in the past year in regards to Frank's life and the journey he’s been on," Wolfe wrote on Instagram at the time. "There has been lots of opinions in regards to mine and Frank’s friendship and the show but now is not the time to set the record straight. Now is the time to pray for my friend."

The TV star had left "American Pickers" earlier that year.

"We all do care about Frank, and we want him back on the show," Wolfe told The Sun at the time. "I would love to talk with him again, we would absolutely love to, but he just can’t get it right."

"Frank is just going through a lot personally with addictions," he alleged. "It’s unfortunate that he’s made decisions that have him the way he is."

Full Article & Source:
'American Pickers' star Frank Fritz dead at 60

See Also:
FRANK'S FIGHT American Pickers’ Frank Fritz relies on ‘long-term nursing care’ after stroke as conservator demands access to his funds

Judge Rules On ‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz Conservatorship

AMERICAN PICKERS STAR FRANK FRITZ'S JUDGE MAKES MAJOR RULING IN DEMAND TO SEAL HEALTH & FINANCIAL RECORDS AFTER STROKE

‘American Pickers’ Frank Fritz Conservatorship In Danger

RIGHT PATH American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator files new financial plan as he recovers from debilitating stroke

American Pickers' Frank Fritz Still Under A Conservatorship, But There's Been An Update

PICKING PRIVACY American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator begs judge to seal his financial records and location amid his recovery

CONSERVATOR CHAOS American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s conservator at risk of removal by judge after star suffers debilitating stroke

PAY UP American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s conservatorship lawyer demands to be paid $2K for his services in tragic case

Frank Fritz, of 'American Pickers,' under guardianship after stroke

FRANK'S FATE American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s judge makes major ruling in conservatorship case after star suffers from stroke

FRANK'S FIGHT American Pickers’ Frank Fritz relies on ‘long-term nursing care’ after stroke as conservator demands access to his funds

by Teresa Roca, Senior Exclusives Reporter & Assistant Entertainment Editor

AMERICAN Pickers star Frank Fritz has been relying on “skilled nursing care” that will be “long-term” two years after he suffered a debilitating stroke. 

Frank, 60, has been under a conservatorship and guardianship since he suffered a stroke at his Le Claire, Iowa home in July 2022, as he has been in and out of the hospital and rehabilitation. 

Frank Fritz, posing in front of his motorcycle collection, needs 'long-term nursing care'Credit: Coleman-Rayner

Frank Fritz, who was a fan-favorite on American Pickers, suffered a stroke in July 2022Credit: American Pickers / History Channel

MidWestOne Bank is Frank’s conservator, as his close friend Chris Davis is his guardian. 

The U.S. Sun can exclusively MidWestOne bank is demanding Frank’s finances be transferred to them, as the star will continue to need “skilled” and “long-term” nursing care. 

Court papers from the conservatorship case obtained by The U.S. Sun reveal Frank has “cash assets and credit accounts” at a separate bank. 

The Conservator’s Initial Plan filed in November 2022 stated the assets would be transferred to MidWestOne, as they could “invest to start generating income” to Frank.

“Since the approval of the plan, the Conservator has repeatedly contacted [the bank] seeking access to the Protected Party’s funds, credit card statements and income tax documents to no avail.”

The bank “repeatedly failed to respond to the Conservator” and “refused to provide access to Mr. Fritz’s assets and documentation, and otherwise ignored the Conservator’s authority, the orders of this court, and the laws of the state of Iowa.”

The court documents continued, “[Frank] continues to rely on long-term skilled nursing care, so it is imperative that his assets are properly managed and wisely invested to support his long-term needs.

“The Protected Party no longer has any need for consumer credit cards and any accounts that remain open are susceptible to fraud, especially since the Conservator is not allowed access to them to review charges.”

MidWestOne Bank requests, “The court should issue an order compelling [the bank] to release all of Frank Fritz’s funds to the Conservator, close all of Frank Fritz’s credit card accounts, provide the Conservator with Frank Fritz’s income tax documents for 2023, and change the mailing address for future income tax documents to the Conservator’s address.”

A hearing took place on July 19. 

The judge on the case ordered the bank to respond to the conservator and provide access to all bank accounts and credit cards held or controlled by Frank. 

Frank Fritz's Conservatorship

Frank Fritz was placed under a conservatorship in August 2022, just weeks after he suffered a stroke.

• Frank's conservator is MidWestOne Bank and is in charge of his finances
• The bank agreed to invest Frank's money and collections to generate income
• The guardian is his good friend Chris Davis
• Chris is responsible for helping Frank manage his Crohn's disease treatment, go to physical therapy, grocery shop, cook and more day-to-day tasks
• The conservatorship also agreed to help replenish Frank's Iowa antique store, Frank Fritz Finds
• A wheel-chair ramp and more have been installed in his Iowa home under the conservatorship

UNDER CONSERVATORSHIP

The U.S. Sun broke the news that the conservatorship was filed in August 2022. 

“Because of his stroke, Mr. Fritz’s decision­-making capacity is so impaired that he is unable to care for his own safety or to provide for necessities such as food, shelter, clothing, or medical care without which physical injury or illness may occur," documents obtained by The U.S. Sun read.

“Mr. Fritz’s decision­-making capacity is so impaired that he is unable to make, communicate, or carry out important decisions concerning his own financial affairs.”

“Decisions must be made for Mr. Fritz’s care and placement while he continues to recover and receive treatment for his injuries. 

“Appointment of a guardian and conservator is necessary to avoid immediate harm to him.”

The Guardian agreed to help Frank with his Crohn's disease treatment, as well as bring him to physical therapy and help him grocery shop, cook, and more.

As for the conservator, MidWestOne filed an Initial Plan that revealed Frank’s monthly expenses. 

The amount of $28,292 is spent a month on expenses and the majority of his budget totals $22,832 for “in-home health care.”

His annual healthcare total is $273,984.

Frank, seen on the History channel show American Pickers, has been 'improving daily'Credit: American Pickers on The History Channel/Facebook

'SAME OLD FRANK'

Frank has been in and out of rehabilitation after he was released from the hospital in September 2022. 

“Frank continues to improve daily. You’re never 100 percent after a stroke, but he’s fine. He’s aware of what’s going on," a friend of Frank’s previously told The U.S. Sun.

"If he were sitting here right now, you could sit and talk to him. He’s the same old Frank.”

Frank was wheelchair-bound after suffering the stroke. 

“He can walk, but he’s always going to need the wheelchair because he can’t walk long distances,” the pal shared. 

“Basically, you lose motion. He lost motion. A stroke can affect your left or your right side, it affected his right side.”

FINAL EPISODE

Frank last appeared on American Pickers during a March 2020 episode. 

He took time off to recover from back surgery, leaving him with 185 stitches and two rods in his spine. 

During his time off the show, he entered rehab for alcohol addiction in Iowa for 77 days.

Frank had a falling out with his longtime friend and co-star Mike Wolfe, but the two reconciled after his stroke. 

American Pickers now stars Mike, Robbie Wolfe, Jon Szalay, and Danielle Colby. 

Frank, pictured with his former cast members, last appeared on American Pickers in 2020Credit: History Channel

Full Article & Source:
FRANK'S FIGHT American Pickers’ Frank Fritz relies on ‘long-term nursing care’ after stroke as conservator demands access to his funds

See Also:
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Frank Fritz, of 'American Pickers,' under guardianship after stroke

FRANK'S FATE American Pickers alum Frank Fritz’s judge makes major ruling in conservatorship case after star suffers from stroke