Christine Fritch

Christine A. Fritch, 100, a retired U.S. Navy nurse, who served the country during World War II, passed away Monday, September 5, 2016 at Candle Light Cove Assisted Living Center, Easton.

Born June 22, 1916 in Shamrock, PA, she was the daughter of the late Katie Christman and Austin Fritch. Her desire to get away from the farm she grew up on and go to the city led her to attend nursing school at the age of 18 and worked as a nurse in a hospital in New York. She later joined the Navy around 1943. Christine was one of the first of a handful of American nurses in occupied Japan during World War II, and also was one of the first nurses in the Philippines. She was assigned to be the personal nurse of Chester William Nimitz, a fleet admiral with the U.S. Navy, in his final months. Fritch spent about 20 years in the U.S. Navy and eventually was promoted to commander, the highest rank a female could attain at the time. Fritch always was dedicated to her naval career.

After retiring from the Navy Fritch worked into her 80s and did a variety of jobs, ranging from real estate to working in a doctor’s office.

Christine joined the Candlelight Cove community this past January, after injuring herself in a fall. Prior to the fall one of her greatest loves was traveling and taking cruises. She went on two or three cruises a year. When she was 90, Fritch took a cruise around the world, alone, which is something she always had wanted to do.

She had a very strong personality and was used to being in charge. She ruled her family; but she was also a very compassionate person. She was very good to her family, she was always stepping up and helping out.

Surviving is her sister Bernice Miller; niece Kathleen Bodey of Easton; nephew Robert Miller of Carlisle, PA along with other nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Christine's wishes, services will be private.

Arrangements entrusted to Newcomb and Collins Funeral Home, P.A.

To share memories and send online condolences visit www.newcombcollins.com

Services will be private