Arnold Fritz, 57, of Paradise Valley, Ariz., passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 2, 2016. Arnold was born in Anchorage, Alaska. He was preceded in death by his father, Rolland Fritz and his infant sister, Deanna. He is survived by his wife, Colleen Fritz; his daughter, Elise Compton Nelson; his son-in-law, Ryan Nelson; his sister, Suzanne Hueners; brother, Robert Fritz; sister, Kathryn Stuart; brother, John Fritz; and many, many aunts, uncles, cousins and precious nieces and nephews. Arnie was dedicated to a lifelong effort defending and supporting those less fortunate. His professional life began with counseling victims in crisis in Anchorage. After earning his law degree from the University of Minnesota, his career continued and culminated with his post in the public defender's office for Maricopa County. Arnie's personal life was filled with passion, where he possessed a rare combination of qualities. His gregarious sense of humor was matched by thoughtful insights. His endless quest for knowledge included a propensity to pontificate. He loved the serenity of nature and was equally intrigued by the hunt for the latest technology. He enjoyed golf and despite his genius, struggled with score keeping. He was an accomplished photographer, a wine connoisseur, a music lover and a genuine Minnesota Vikings fanatic (Skol! brother). But it was his passion for his family, immediate and extended, that will be remembered most fondly. His sense of humor, generosity and most of all love, will be greatly missed. A service will be held to memorialize Arnold at Ascension Lutheran Church, 7100 North Mockingbird Lane, Paradise Valley, Ariz., 85253. Memorial donations can be sent to The Reverend and Mrs. Herbert Brammeier Memorial Scholarship Endowment at Concordia University, 800 North Columbia Ave., Seward, NE 68434-1599. Arrangements entrusted to Messinger Indian School Mortuary.