Joseph Walter "Fritz" Heintz

Joseph Walter “Fritz” Heintz entered peacefully into eternal rest on January 30, 2023. Born in New Orleans to the late Venderella Agnes Di Maggio Heintz and George Joseph Heintz, he was preceded in death by his brother Warren George Heintz, killed in action during WWII.

Fritz spent his early years in New Orleans, a graduate of Warren Easton High School, Tulane University. After the war, Fritz traveled to France to attend the University of Sorbonne where he earned his doctorate. 

Fritz served in the United States Navy during WWII aboard the LST 1103 Ship for the Okinawa Campaign, Occupation of Japan, and Repatriation of Japanese. He was appointed as a Reserve Officer in the grade of Lieutenant in the United States Navy, on July 1, 1960.

Education and travel were important to Fritz. He taught English in Korea and Japan after the war through a government program. Returning to America, he taught French and Spanish in Wisconsin, Missouri, New Jersey, and New York. While living in the Northeast Fritz furthered his passion for the arts as an avid patron of the Metropolitan Opera, and New York City Ballet and performed in local theatre productions.

Upon his retirement as an educator in New York, he relocated to Metairie and taught foreign language and computer science at St Benilde School. He resumed his passion for the arts as a patron of the New Orleans Opera and New Orleans Ballet. Fritz served as a volunteer at the WWII Museum where he shared his knowledge of the war.

After Hurricane Katrina, Fritz volunteered and taught Spanish to the medical staff at East Jefferson Hospital. Fritz was honored as Gentleman of the Year for his efforts.
Fritz’s interest in history and culture led him to travel especially to Europe, Mexico, Italy, Canada, and France. He enjoyed National Parks, small towns, Caribbean cruises as well as Trans-Atlantic cruises. Wherever he lived or traveled, he made many friends whose friendships he valued throughout his lifetime.

Fritz is survived by his caregiver and cousin Camille DiMaggio Dufour as well as a host of many first, second, and third cousins, his travel companion and lifelong dearest lady friend Wendy Lew, and his dancing partner, dear lady friend Irene Rogillo.

A heartfelt special thanks to Dr. William LaCorte, Caregiver Elaine Denson, and housemate Gary Lind for their kindness and compassionate care. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Jefferson SPCA would be appreciated to honor Fritz’s love of animals.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation at

Greenwood Funeral Home, 5200 Canal Blvd, New Orleans, on Monday, February 13, 2023, starting at 9:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass in the Chapel at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow in The Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Slidell, LA.

 

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