This tribute was written for a local newspaper by one of Fritz Lüthi’s gymnast colleagues
"Last Friday a large crowd led our colleague, Fritz Lüthi, to his final resting place. It was a touching moment when they placed the flag on the coffin of the loved one as a final farewell. The symbol on the flag was written specially for him.
Brisk, pious, joyous, free ("Frisch, fromm, fröhlich, frei" – the motto of the German gymnastics clubs) – that’s how he lived and that’s how we will remember him. He was always ready and willing to lend a hand, and everyone could always rely on him. Despite all the honours awarded to him for his gymnastic achievements he remained modest and down to earth and he didn’t want any fuss made over him.
In 1917, at the age of 17, he joined the Embrach Gymnastics Club. By the time he was 21 he was entrusted with leadership of the senior gymnasts – and he held this position until 1933. His aim was to inject new life into the club. One club member used to write songs, and a "hand-organ" group introduced some enjoyment into the club and strengthened the camaraderie between its members. In 1922, full of high expectations, the club took part in an event in St Gallen. Under young Fritz’s leadership the team won the crown of laurels. This success caused great delight, and the proud men returned home well satisfied.
Fritz was also the founder of three walking groups – the Frauen-, Damen- and Männerriege. For many years from 1934 he led the Damenriege, and for about 15 years, until shortly before his death, he led the Frauenriege. Thanks to his considerable abilities it also fell naturally to him to manage the ladies’ gymnastics club. The very nearly complete turnout of the Frauenriege at the cemetery showed how much he and his qualities were valued and esteemed.
Fritz Lüthi organised lots of outings for the gymnastics club both close to home and further afield. During these outings one could appreciate just how closely he was connected to his environment. He knew just about everything there was to know and had an enviable gift for knowing the names of all the mountains, and an ability to recognise them from all angles. This knowledge made the gymnastics outings a very special experience. He knew how to entertain the whole group in the happiest posssible way, and for anyone taking part these wonderful outings in his company were unforgettable.
He also became well known for the evening entertainments he arranged at the club. He selected performances from well-known plays and directed them himself, devoting countless hours to the task. He ultimately earned honorary membership of the club for all his tireless work on its behalf.
Dear Fritz, the wonderful, happy hours we spent with you will remain forever in our memories. We feel your loss deeply. However, we do not begrudge you the achievement of peace after all the pain you have suffered so very bravely and without uncomplaint."