Fred Harry Kumb, Jr.

Fred (Fritz) Harry Kumb, Jr., 81 years old, a life-long resident of Indianapolis, passed away on July 14th, 2025. He is survived by his sister, Janice Ransom, two nieces, Chelsea Ransom and Elissa Liana Ransom, a nephew, Matthew Ransom, and five grand nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Jane Ann Gardner Kumb and Fred Harry Kumb, Sr.

Fritz graduated from Shortridge High School, attended DePauw University, and graduated from Indiana University. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity.

Although he was employed in a variety of positions during his life, he loved his position as CEO of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. He was close to many people associated with the symphony, from board members to musicians to stage hands. His love of many musical genres was an additional asset.

When he left the symphony, Fritz earned a captain’s license and crewed on yachts for several years. During those years of adventure, he piloted yachts as far as Majorca, Spain. Additionally, he had a passion for his Triumphs which he owned, repaired, and drove from the 1960’s throughout his life. Despite increasing physical ailments, Fritz loved to entertain people and make them laugh, from his friends to his doctors and the staff who cared for him. Fritz also truly loved his kitties and always kept a pair of cats in tow.

Fritz was a proud active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. Just weeks before his death, he celebrated twenty-one years of sobriety. He attended meetings faithfully until illness prevented regular attendance. His friends appreciated and supported him through years of physical adversity, and are all remembered gratefully by his family.

Contributions can be made in his honor to Alcoholics Anonymous, to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, or to WFYI Public Radio. A celebration of life is pending and will be announced at a later date.