The Albuquerque community has been left heartbroken by the news of Jason Thomas Fratrick’s death, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 28, 2025, leaving behind family and friends in mourning.
He was only 23 years old, but his life was full of love, laughter, and inspiration. He touched everyone he met with his joyful spirit and kind heart.
The Special Olympics community, where he was a cherished athlete and coach, feels his loss deeply but honors the incredible mark he left behind.
Jason was born on May 22, 2002, to his loving parents, Mike and Marge Fratrick, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
He attended Inez and McCollum elementary schools, then Hoover Middle School, and graduated from Manzano High School in 2024.
At school, Jason’s bright personality stood out. He joined Best Buddies, a program that builds friendships between students with and without disabilities, and earned a letter for his involvement.
His peers recognized his big dreams and presented him with the Gold Plate Award for “Most Likely to Run the World.” This award demonstrated the high regard in which everyone held him.
Sports were a big part of Jason’s life.
He was an outstanding Special Olympics athlete, competing in skiing, softball, bowling, flag football, basketball, track, and cornhole.
He loved every moment and made many friends through these sports. His talent earned him the 2024 Manzano Special Olympics Athlete of the Year award, and he also earned a letter in the program.
A few years ago, Jason started coaching basketball, flag football, and softball. The Manzano Special Olympics team said,
“Witnessing athletes grow from athletes to coaches is an incredible experience, and Jason’s contributions will be truly missed.”
His passion for helping others grow made him a special coach.
Jason loved music as much as he loved sports. He spent hours playing his drums and guitar, singing along with a big smile on his face.
He was a massive fan of the Indianapolis Colts and enjoyed playing desk football with his “markers,” pretending to make big plays.
In recent years, his favorite thing has been bowling with friends and spending time with his dad, Mike.
These simple moments brought him tremendous happiness, showcasing his warm, easygoing nature.
Jason’s faith was important to him. He found support and guidance at Faith Lutheran Church, where he joined the Youth Group and Faith Riders.
This community helped him face life’s challenges with strength and a positive attitude.
When News of Jason’s Passing Spread, the Special Olympics Manzano Team Shared their Sadness
They spoke of his long journey as an athlete and coach, saying his absence would be deeply felt. Friends and mentors also shared their memories.
Darla Ashley-Sweet wrote,
“Rest in Heaven Jason, you will be missed. You were such an amazing friend and athlete. Prayers and love to Marge and Mike.”
Via Facebook
Saundra Garcia added,
” “We are so sad to hear this. Rest in peace Coach Jason. We send prayers for peace and strength to his family. He will be greatly missed.”
Via Facebook
Karen Umland shared a heartfelt memory:
“I remember coming back to New Mexico and learning Mike and Marge had a son. I spent some time around Jason at the shop, but mostly I heard about his adventures on the ski slopes. He had the perfect parents and was so loved. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
Via frenchfunerals
Kathryn Burnett, Jason’s occupational therapist at Manzano, said,
“He had a great sense of humor and worked hard. He loved school and his friends. He never let anything stop him and always had a smile. He will be greatly missed.”
Via frenchfunerals
Jason leaves behind his parents, Mike and Marge Fratrick, and his grandparents. His large family includes aunts and uncles.
His close friends and the Pease family will never forget him.
Jason was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Pauline Fratrick, his friend Aaron Dooley, and his pets, Toby and Daisy.
A spiritual service to celebrate Jason’s life will take place on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at FRENCH-Lomas in Albuquerque.
Visitation starts at 3:30 PM, and the service begins at 4:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will be announced later, providing everyone with an opportunity to come together and honor him.
Instead of flowers, the family requests donations to the New Mexico Special Olympics, with a memo addressed to the Manzano Delegation. This will keep Jason’s love for sports and community alive.
Jason Thomas Fratrick’s death is a great loss, but his life was a gift to everyone who knew him. He lived with joy, kindness, and a big heart.
Whether he was playing sports, coaching others, or just hanging out with his dad, Jason made every moment special.
His memory will live on in the love he shared and the lives he touched. His spirit will continue to inspire us all to live with the same enthusiasm and care that he did.
