Obituary of Harlan Ernest Fritzsche
Harlan Fritzsche, 83, was born at home in Bonilla, South Dakota on December 5, 1935 to Ernest and Merle Fritzsche. In those times, the newborn was placed in the oven to keep them warm.
Harlan was the eldest of four boys. The Fritzsche family relocated to Sandpoint where Harlan attended high school. Harlan remained friends with many of his classmates until his passing. Leaving home at the age of 14, he headed to the southern states where he told stories of living in barns while bootlegging to make his way. Tiring from this lifestyle, he headed back to his roots returning to South Dakota. While there, he married Barbara Aughenbauh (ahh-en-bah) and had twin boys.
Harlan moved his family to the Rathdrum area where he eventually became the Rathdrum Chief of police and had a daughter. In 1978, Harlan married Donna Miller accepting the responsibility of parenting two boys and a girl. Harlan and Donna lived in the Rathdrum house where Harlan resided for 60 years.
Harlan transferred from the Rathdrum police department to the Post Falls police department where he served until he retired in 1999. Harlan remained close friends with his fellow officers and was known well in this area.
Harlan enjoyed spending weekends on Twin Lakes and Spirit Lake surrounded by family and friends. Many memories were made as he taught his children and relatives to water-ski. Harlan was a patient teacher. Harlan loved to fish and spent many summers camping in Idaho and Montana with fellow officers and family.
Harlan is predeceased by his parents and brother, Alan.
Harlan is survived by his wife, Donna, two brothers (Jim and Dale), 6 children (Brian Fritzsche, Bruce Fritzsche, Lianne Fritzsche-Calhoun, Richard Miller, Scott Miller and Lisa Miller nineteen grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
Harlan went to be with the Lord on April 5, 2019 surrounded by his family and good friend, Bob Moore. Private family graveside services were held. A celebration of life is planned for a later date and will be announced. Bell Tower Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.
