Frederic W. Thomas ’55

Fritz, remembered for his wry humor and keen intellect, died at home in Bethlehem, Pa., Nov. 1, 2025.

He was born Nov. 4, 1933, in Allentown, Pa. Before Princeton, he graduated from the Lawrenceville School, where he participated in publications, band, and was a sports manager, At Princeton, he majored in politics, joined the Key and Seal Club, and during senior year roomed with John Coogan and Bob McCulloch.

After graduation Fritz served as a lieutenant in the Army, posted in Germany. Back in Bethlehem he spent a career in small business ownership. Fritz was a longtime member of the Saucon Valley Country Club and a strong supporter of The Bach Choir, Historic Bethlehem, and Moravian Academy. When not listening to and singing along with his favorite opera arias or cheering on the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles, he reveled in meticulously crafting model airplanes and then flying them alongside a community of fellow enthusiasts.

Fritz is survived by his wife of 62 years, Judith; children Lucy Thomas and Fritz Jr.; and three grandchildren.