The storage industry is mourning the loss of a great leader, advocate, mentor and dedicated family man, Charlie Fritts, a Toy Storage Nation Advisory Board Member who passed away August 11, 2024, in East Amherst, N.Y.
“I have lost a good friend and the storage business has truly lost a giant,” said fellow TSN Advisory Board Member Jim Chiswell. “Charlie will always be, in my mind and heart, one of the true gentlemen of our industry. Over his decades within the storage industry, he has always been willing to share his knowledge and experience with anyone who asked for his help.”
“Charlie will be remembered for his selfless manner and his many contributions to Toy Storage Nation,” said TSN President Amy Bix. “We valued and appreciated his knowledge and capacity to mentor others through his wealth of expertise, never hesitating to encourage others to help elevate industry standards.”
During his 30-plus years in property management, Fritts developed many professional relations, with whom he will be always revered as one of the kindest, most compassionate allies. He thoughtfully shared his expertise and warm-hearted humor with everyone he encountered, both within his business as president and owner of Storage Investment Management (SIMI) and the many roles he served within industry organizations.
As the current president of the Northeast Self Storage Association (NeSSA), he is recognized as a remarkable leader who shared a passion to help others to be their very best. According to a recent NeSSA press release, Fritts was not just a decades-long member, supporter and volunteer for local associations, his dedication and guidance enabled the organization to achieve new heights, and his efforts greatly strengthened the industry.
“I am heartbroken to hear of Charlie’s passing,” stated NeSSA Secretary/Treasurer Jessica Lamoureux in the press release. “It was an honor to serve alongside him for the past 14 years. We are all better professionals for working with Charlie and his kind, calm demeanor. He will be sorely missed as a resource and dear friend.”
“If you were one of the fortunate people to have met and worked with Charlie, then you knew him to be one of the nicest persons you will ever have the privilege of encountering,” shared Steve Tranni, NeSSA vice president, in the press release announcing Fritts’ death.
Added NeSSA Director Neftali Aponte: “Few people can claim the privilege of having met or known a man like Charlie during their lifetime. Even fewer had the chance to work closely with him. The world has lost an extraordinary individual–a man of integrity, determination, leadership, generosity and much more. My heart is broken.”
Fritts is survived by his wife of 45 years, Kathy, daughters Lauren and Jennifer, and numerous grandchildren. Memories and condolences are being shared at www.denglerrobertspernafuneral.com.
“I trust that prayers will be offered for Charlie and his family by everyone who was lucky enough to work with him over the years,” concluded Chiswell. “He will be truly missed.”
