It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of KITPLANES Senior Editor Bob Fritz on February 4. Bob had battled brain cancer for 25 months and had lived better, for longer than anyone in medicine had expected. Bob approached his illness with typical candor and forthrightness.
KITPLANES readers will remember Bob for his acclaimed Home Machinist series, but his accomplishments go well beyond that long-running feature. Following a stint in the U.S. Navy, Bob put his degree in mechanical engineering to use and was a tireless advocate for effective and consistent quality control. He brought that discipline to his work for KITPLANES. An avid diver and motorcyclist, Bob’s love of flying was a surprise to no one.
Bob is survived by his wife, Li Vellunga, two adult children, his mother and brother. For all of us in the KITPLANES family, Bob will be greatly missed.