Fred Irving "Fritz" Fansler, Jr., 85, of Roanoke Rapids, died Monday, January 26, 2009, at Halifax Regional Medical Center.

Mr. Fansler was a native of Winston-Salem, the son of the late Fred Irving Fansler, Sr. and Elma Johnson Fansler. He was a United States Air Force veteran, serving as a pilot during WWII, and retiring as Lt. Col. Mr. Fansler also was retired from Champion International Paper Co. after 35 years of service. He served as Chairman of the Board at Roanoke Rapids Savings Bank.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Janet Carpenter.

Mr. Fansler is survived by his wife, Billie, of the home; two daughters, Jo Ellen Elixson of Wilmington, and Billie Luck Kitchin and her husband, Dale, of Greenville; one son, David Fansler and his wife, Mary, of Wilson; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two foster great-grandchildren; and one brother, Wayne Fansler, of Winston-Salem.

Memorial services will be held Friday, January 30, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Roanoke Rapids with Rev. Jane Love officiating. The family will receive friends following the services in the Loy Building.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 16 E. 5th Street, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870.

The flag in front of the funeral home flies at half-staff in honor of Mr. Fansler’s service to his country.