Frederick Paul Schlimgen

The volunteers, flight team and board of Badger Honor Flight mourn the loss of their hero, Frederick Schlimgen. We are thankful for his military service and proud to have served him on his trip to Washington, D.C. on October 13, 2012.

Who didn’t love Fritz !? He was so funny and droll . I met him through his beautiful daughter Jennifer who remains my dear friend . Fritz asked me lots of questions about my chosen profession ( show business ) and managed to display genuine interest , fascination , admiration and slight horror all at the same time - I was so taken with his response ! Fritz was SMART. Smart and kind . Isn’t that what we all should strive to be ? My love goes out to the family and I hope you all know that your Dad was loved and admired by so many people both nearby and afar . Julie Halston

Thinking fondly of playing Heart and Soul on a number of occasions with Fritz. Recalling his smile and his generosity, for example the amazing number of cheeseburgers he'd grill on certain summer night gatherings at the house. Admiring his and Fran's journey together for so many years. Sending love and condolences to Fran, Jen, Miles, Ann, Nancy, Kathy and the rest of the family. Sybil Davis

I have such wonderful memories of, and respect for Fritz. It wasn’t easy, but I managed to get myself hired at RS&J in early 1980. Lake City Glass held an annual golf outing for customers for a few years in the later 70’s. Although we were competitors at the time, I arranged to get in the same foursome as my Dad, Glen Onsager, and Fritz. I dropped hints off and on about business, but he wasn’t biting. So, walking down the 17th fairway at Sun Prairie Country Club with Fritz, running out of time...I said “You know, it sure would be neat to come and work for you sometime”. He said “that’s interesting”, and by the time we got to the clubhouse we had agreed to meet at The Embers on East Wash near Aberg Ave. We had breakfast together and discussed the possibilities, he offered me the job, and I immediately and gratefully accepted. It was a time of fast and sometimes turbulent growth in the company, but Fritz always kept his demeanor and dry sense of humor regardless. I’m so grateful for the four years he allowed me to work for him. Rest In Peace, my friend.

Fritz was a wonderful man. My husband, Robert Wick, Quality Carpet Service worked for the business for many many years and had so much respect for Fritz. I remember when the guys would go to lay carpet for Fritz and his wife, they were always greeted with something to drink and sit down and visit for awhile. He gave my husband the chance to build his business. That was in 1976 and for many years we were contracted with him.