Frederick "Fritz" Panning, age 90, of Cambridge, formerly of St. Paul Park, went to be with the Lord on November 12, 2025.
Frederick Panning was born on April 12, 1935 to William and Frieda Panning in New Ulm. In his earlier years, he had a baseball career playing for the Gibbon Reds, Hector Flyers and the New Ulm Brewers as a pitcher. Fritz was called to be an educator who guided young minds with patience, compassion and faith. He taught elementary and high school students at various Lutheran schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin through the years. Fritz coached grade school and high school basketball and baseball teams. He enjoyed the outdoors especially hunting and fishing. Fritz will be most remembered for love of family and strong faith.
Survived by sons Jonathan (Alica) and Thomas (Karen); grandchildren Anna (Jacob) Morrison and Samuel; great-grandchildren Hazel, Lyla, Malakai and Stella; sister Clarice Fastenau; sister-in-law Dorothy Panning and other loving family and friends. He is preceded in death by his wife of 60 years Doris; parents William and Frieda (Bode) Panning; siblings Roland Panning, Armin (Virginia) Panning and Norma (David and Bill) Luetke Roubik and brother-in-law Don Fastenau.
Visitation will be 4-7 PM on Monday, November 17, 2025 at Kok Funeral Home, 7676 80th St. S., Cottage Grove, MN, 55016 and will continue at 10 AM Thursday at the church. Funeral Service at 11 AM, Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at Christ Lutheran Church, 32962 Vickers St. NE, Cambridge, MN. All are invited to a luncheon at the Levande, 2011 6th Lane SE; Cambridge, MN following the service. Interment to follow at Cottage Grove Cemetery.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for the compassionate care given by Lila of Allina Hospice and the staff at The Levande.
Memorials preferred to Christ Lutheran Church Building Fund and St. Croix Academy
Kok Funeral Home
Christ Lutheran Church
Cottage Grove Cemetery
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