Erich Gustav Fronck

Erich Gustav Fronck, Sr, 90, also lovingly known as Dada, of Prince Frederick, Maryland and formerly of Glenn Dale, Maryland went to his Heavenly Home on Thursday, June 18, 2026, after four years of courageously striving to maintain his independence. Erich was born April 29, 1936 in the Family Home located in Glenn Dale, Maryland to Gustav Fronck and Ena Patricia (Wallace) Fronck. He grew up in Glenn Dale and graduated from Bladensburg High School.
Erich met Donna Lee (Raley) Fronck on a blind date in January 1956 and they were married in October 1956. Except for a few years after marriage, Erich and his bride built a home on a portion of the Family Farm given to them by his parents as a wedding gift. Together they raised two children, Sonny and Patti. He lived there until he was 80 years old.
Erich’s first job was at a local bowling alley where he set up the pins by hand and dodged the bowling balls rolling down the lane. He would get tips from patrons who would toss coins down the gutters. Before he got his drivers license, he would ride his bike to work. He also worked for C&P Telephone Company changing the phone numbers from 3 digits to 4 digits. He started his adult job in 1954 working for Washington Gas Light Company as a Grade 2 mail carrier. He worked his way up the corporate ladder to the role of Superintendent of Electronic Communications and retired in 1992 after 38 years of dedication.
Erich enjoyed helping others, offering his time, kindness and support. After retirement, he worked for an Assisted Living Facility providing transportation for residents to and from appointments and often assisting them with filling out forms. He also took residents on scenic drives. He was also employed by Parks and Rec. He would open the facility early so members could exercise and swim before going to work. He was also a driver for special events, activities, and trips. Erich and Donna were actively involved with the Glenn Dale Senior Citizens Club planning special events and trips. He enjoyed traveling anywhere, whether it was a cruise or a road trip. He enjoyed traveling alone with Donna, with Family, or with Friends. He was always ready for a good time.
As a child, Erich would take things apart to see how they worked and put them back together. He enjoyed working with his hands and was always “tinkering” with something. He found a sense of satisfaction in fixing and repairing anything broken. He had the knowledge to fix “tube” televisions and radios as a side job. He was always up to a challenge. Erich rarely sat idle. He enjoyed having a vegetable garden, and everyone knew of his love for flowers, especially African Violets. He had a true gift for growing them and knew exactly what they needed to thrive and produce beautiful blooms. He found joy in being outdoors, surrounded by nature.
Erich is survived by his loving children, son, Erich G. Fronck, Jr (Susan) of Hedgesville, West Virginia and daughter, Patricia A. Ritter (Brian) of Huntingtown, Maryland. Also, surviving are Grandchildren, Brian W. Ritter, Jr (Stacey), Mary C. Fronck (Jeremy), Kevin M. Ritter (Annaleise), Rachel H. Fronck (Aaron), Christopher L. Horner (Kristy) and Edward W. Horner (Whitney); Great-Grandchildren, Alexa J. Ritter, Riley P. Ritter, Camryn E. Ritter, Lily J. Ritter, Rowan B. Ritter, Hannah V. Ritter, Griffin Horner and Gabriella Horner and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Erich cherished his entire family, but losing his devoted wife and closest friend was a sorrow he carried quietly to the end.
Erich was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Donna; their son, David A. Fronck; and his siblings, Peggy Bonaccorsy and Betty Williams.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to Bright Focus Foundation in support of Macular Degeneration Research: 22512 Gateway Center Drive Clarksburg MD 20871 or to The MDS Foundation in support of Myelodysplastic Syndrome Research and Support: 228 Park Ave S PMB 118983 New York, NY 10003-1502