ROCK FALLS – Elden H. “Audy” Fritsch, 82, of Rock Falls, died Monday, July 30, 2012, at his home.

Elden was born Nov. 22, 1929, in Sterling, the son of Cecil and Mayme (Hollis) Fritsch. He was well known in the lumber business, and was employed in building material sales for Johnston Lumber Company, Wolohan’s and Frary Lumber Company. In 1991, he was chosen for the Customer Service Hall of Fame by Wolohan Lumber. He served in the Air Force as an aircraft mechanic in the Korean conflict. Elden married Marilyn Ann Peterson on Aug. 5, 1950. She preceded him in death in 1992. He then married Gwendolyn Schmidt in 1993.

Elden was a member of Sterling Moose Lodge and American Legion Post 296. He also was a member of Coloma Township Board, serving as a trustee and clerk for 47 years. Elden also was the chairman of Rock Falls Dog Control for many years. He attended Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rock Falls.