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Frank Fritz from ‘American Pickers’ passes away.

**LE CLAIRE, Iowa (WHBF) — Frank Fritz, a beloved host of the History Channel’s show “American Pickers,” has passed away, as confirmed by his longtime friend and co-host, Mike Wolfe.**

“It’s with a broken heart that I share the news that Frank passed away last night,” Wolfe announced on Instagram Tuesday.

Reflecting on their friendship, Wolfe wrote: “We’ve been on countless trips together and shared so many miles. I feel blessed that I was there by his side when he took one last journey home. I love you, buddy, and will miss you so much. I know you’re in a better place.”

Fritz, originally from Le Claire, Iowa, suffered a stroke in 2022. His cause of death has not been disclosed. A Facebook group dedicated to updating fans on Fritz’s health mentioned that he was hospitalized earlier this year with complications from the stroke and Crohn’s disease.

On Tuesday morning, a friend shared on social media that Fritz passed away Monday night, surrounded by loved ones, including Wolfe.

“Please be kind as we navigate through this loss,” they posted.

Frank Fritz, born in Davenport, Iowa, became widely known for co-hosting “American Pickers” alongside Wolfe. The show, which has aired since 2010, followed the duo as they traveled across the U.S., discovering hidden treasures and unique items to feature in their Antique Archaeology stores in Le Claire and Nashville.

Fritz left the show in 2020, which reportedly caused some tension between him and Wolfe. However, the two eventually reconciled, and Wolfe was reportedly trying to bring Fritz back onto the show.

Reflecting on their relationship, Wolfe shared: “I’ve known Frank for more than half my life. What people saw on TV was exactly who he was—an honest dreamer with a great sense of humor. Frank was the same off-camera as he was on, reaching the hearts of many just by being himself. Who would have imagined we’d share the front seat of a white cargo van in front of millions of people, taking them along on our adventures?”

Danielle Colby, a co-star who worked with both Fritz and Wolfe, also paid tribute to Fritz on Tuesday.

“Frank, I will miss your ability to make everyone laugh, your love for talking about tattoos, and your epic collections. But what I will miss the most are those rare glimpses of vulnerability you’d share from time to time,” she wrote.