Sharon “Jean” Fritz (nee Barner), 81, longtime resident of Burr Ridge, passed away peacefully after a seven year journey with Alzheimer’s disease on August 29, 2025. Up until the end Jean maintained her kindness, compassion and love for life.
Jean was born in Cadillac Michigan on December 1, 1943 to Gerald and Ruby Barner. Beloved wife of Edward (58 years of marriage); loving mother of Brad (Boyoung) Fritz and Jamie Robinson; devoted grandma “Morning” of Taylor Fritz (Jon) and Caiden Robinson; dearest sister of Keith (Margo) Barner, Patsy (the late Bob) Meachum, Greg Barner and the late Zara (Woody) Hansen; fond aunt of nieces and nephews.
Jean graduated with a master’s degree in social work, after attending Michigan State University and George Williams College. Jean dedicated her life to helping others. As a compassionate and committed social worker, she spent over 50 years advocating for vulnerable individuals and families. Her work touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on her community.
Outside of her professional life Jean found joy and peace in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid boater with her husband going on many boating adventures on the water. Her favorite vacation spot was in Michigan at the cottages with the family and friends. Jean was happiest on or by the water.
Jean was also a gifted quilter, known for creating beautiful, handcrafted quilts that were both works of art and expressions of love. Many of her pieces were given as gifts, wrapping family and friends in warmth and comfort. Her eye for detail and patience were evident in every stitch.
Jean will be remembered for her deep empathy, quiet strength, and unwavering love and dedication to others. She was loved beyond measure by so many. Her warmth, wisdom, and contagious humor will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Visitation Saturday September 6, 2025 from 2-6 P.M. at Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home & Cremation Services 4920 Main St., Downers Grove. Interment private. Info 630-852-8000 or westsuburbanfh.com
I remember growing up and Morning making us her “Special cheese” which consisted of American Cheese and Ham. I’ve had that plenty of times but just like everything and everyone she came into touch with she made it special. She was special and unlike anyone else, I always felt so safe around her. I will miss that about her so much. Morning you will be very missed but always loved and remembered.
my favorite memory with morning is when one day we were at morning and bapas house and i wanted to play hide and seek with morning. And i went upstairs to count while she was hiding and I come down stairs and im looking around and all i hear is the wall vibrate in the laundry room. So i go in there and look behind the door and it turns out that she had farted. Morning may had been crazy and funny but she always has loved her grandkids very much.
My Mom, my best friend and my hero. Life will never be the same without you. I will forever miss you. 💜
I am one of Jean’s cousins. I remember how gracious Jean was when we had Fritz gatherings at their home. She and Ed were fantastic hosts and Jean would keep us laughing and having a good time.
I also remember how good it felt when I came out to Jean as a lesbian as a high school student. Back in the 70’s it was taboo to be gay. Jean always made me feel welcome and comfortable to be exactly who I was.
To know Morning was to be loved by her. There was never a moment where I didn’t feel included, seen, and loved in her presence. Her absence is deeply felt but I am so grateful for the memories I have of her that I’ll hold for the rest of my life.