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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Fred William Leithe Jr. (Fritz), 83, who left this world peacefully, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters.
He passed away Thursday May 1, 2025 at Liza's Place, Wheeling. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, hard work, and unwavering kindness.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 32 years, Linda Leithe; two daughters: Tracie Spencer of Raleigh, NC and Hollie (George "Moose") Strauss of Columbus, OH; two granddaughters: Alex and Kelsey Spencer; two sisters: Mary Kay Heller and Shirley Milhorn and numerous nieces and nephews.
Born July 26, 1941 in Wheeling, he was the son of the late Fred and Helen (Swineburg) Leithe. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters: Helen Minzler and Beverly "Micki" Heller.
Fritz enjoyed a fulfilling 32-year career as a driver-salesman for Carenbauer Distributing Corporation. His down-to-earth personality and work ethic turned customers into friends. After retiring, with his desire to socialize and be helpful to others he worked as a bellman at Oglebay's Wilson Lodge for 13 years. He shared the same welcoming and helpful charm with visitors from near and far. Guests remembered him not just for his service, but for the way he made them feel -- like family.
He was an active and cherished member of several local clubs, including the Cave Club, the Snake Club, and the Elm Grove Fraternal Order of Eagles. These clubs were a source of camaraderie and fun for him. One of his favorite weekly traditions was gathering with his friends for what they affectionately called "Therapy Sessions" -- time to share beer, stories, and laughter.
He shared 32 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife Linda, his best friend and travel companion. They loved to travel and socialize with friends. Their love was evident to all who knew them.
Fritz was a proud and devoted father to his two daughters Tracie Spencer and Hollie Strauss. His granddaughters Alex and Kelsey Spencer brought him great joy. He and Linda loved entertaining and creating wonderful memories during the holidays at the Oglebay Park Cabins.
His family & friends will miss him dearly, but they carry his legacy in the stories they tell, the laughter they share, and the love he gave so freely.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 11:00am until 1:00pm at the Grisell Funeral Home & Crematory, 1 Ridgecrest Road, Bethlehem/ Wheeling, WV.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Valley Hospice Liza's Place Care Center – 308 Mount St. Joseph Rd, Wheeling, WV 26003 – (www.valleyhospice .org )
Sympathy expressions can be sent to grisellfuneralhomes .com