Fritz (Fred) Michaelis

Fritz, born in 1934 in Fox River Grove, Illinois, to German immigrant parents, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025. Raised on Chicago’s northwest side, he developed a lifelong passion for art and music, through involvement in the Christopher House Community Center art program, children's Saturday classes at the Art Institute of Chicago, and his early schooling at Prescott Elementary school. He also developed a love for classical music that persisted throughout his life.

Fritz was a graduate of Palatine High School, lettering in track and enjoying acting in theatre productions. After high school, Fritz served briefly in the U.S. Army before earning a Bachelor of Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1961. There, Fritz met fellow student Fay, whom he married in 1963.

His 32-year teaching career with District 214 began in 1962, primarily at Arlington High School, where he taught innovative courses, such as Visual Exploration and Design, which he created while earning a Master’s Degree at the Institute of Design-IIT. He later taught at Forest View and Elk Grove High Schools, retiring in 1994. Fritz was honored in 1997 as a Friend of the Arts by District 214’s Arts Unlimited. His impact as an educator was profound, with former students, like Gary Drake, Patty Lind, Rick Abbott, and Juan Medina becoming art teachers themselves.

Post-retirement, Fritz worked at Arlington Camera Store, pursued photography and art glass design, played cribbage with friends, studied the Bible, and wrote his memoirs. He and Fay enjoyed hosting friends for dinner, with Fritz often cooking delicious gourmet meals. He spent 20 years as a volunteer guide at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park, where he shared his love for architecture. With Fay, he traveled to Europe and the British Isles, immersing himself in the art and culture. Fritz also enjoyed performing with the West Suburban Radio Players Group.

Throughout his life, Fritz lived out a steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ with integrity and sincerity. He was both a teacher and a student of God's Word, actively serving in his local congregation and leading his family at home.

It goes without saying that if you knew Fritz, you knew he had a twinkle in his eye and an affinity for puns, jokes and laughter. His fun and warm demeanor touched young and old alike. He will be deeply missed.

Fritz leaves behind a legacy of creativity, education, community and love. He was preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Theresa Michaelis, as well as brothers Werner and Otto. He is survived by his wife Fay, son Klee (and wife Wendy), and daughter Mai (and husband Simon), 7 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, brother Carl Michaelis, a niece, nephew, and countless students and friends inspired by his passion for life.