Larry James Pitzen of Sussex, WI passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on October 4th, 2025. Larry has joined his beloved wife Ann of 63 years in Heaven. He was a loving father to Amy (Dale Damm) Schneider and Jon (Dawn) Pitzen. Cherished Grandfather to J.T. Pitzen, Kenzie Medick, Megan Schneider, and Marisa Pitzen, and Great-Grandpa to Kendra Knoerr. Larry is survived by his sister-in-laws Una Hull-Smith and Dixie Hull. He is preceded in death by his parents Lawrence and Constance Pitzen.

Larry was a man of faith, integrity, humor, and quiet strength whose life touched countless others.

Born in the small town of Stacyville, Iowa, to Lawrence Pitzen and Constance Schrandt, Larry was their only child and a source of great pride and joy. Though Larry had no siblings of his own, he was close to numerous cousins who filled that role in his life, creating bonds like those of brothers and sisters. Raised on a farm, a big part of his childhood was volunteering with 4-H and showing cattle, experiences that nurtured his lifelong love of agriculture and animals. He attended Visitation Catholic Church and School from kindergarten through 12th grade, where he forged lasting values and friendships. A proud athlete, he played both basketball and baseball for Visitation High School — the beginning of an enduring love of sports.

After high school, Larry pursued a degree in Animal Husbandry at Iowa State University, where he also met the love of his life, Ann. They married the year after he graduated, beginning a beautiful partnership that was 63 years long. During college, he completed an internship with the USDA in Stockton, California — the first of many adventures.

Thanks to Ann’s career as a travel agent, the couple traveled the world together, collecting memories and shot glasses from every corner of the globe. Yet no matter how far he roamed, his roots remained firmly planted in the Midwest. For 37 years, he worked at the Godfrey Company as a produce buyer for Sentry Foods, earning the affectionate nickname “The Banana Man” for his deep knowledge of the trade and his signature wit.

Together with Ann, they built their home in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, where they raised their two children, Jon and Amy. Every summer, they would always take a family vacation, as well as many trips back to Stacyville and Brooklyn, Iowa, to visit family and reconnect with their roots. They also made frequent trips to California to visit his sister-in-law, Una, strengthening family bonds across the miles. A skilled craftsman, Larry took pride in doing things with his own two hands. He believed in hard work, including raising and showing Schipperkes, a breed he loved and cared for deeply.

Larry was a familiar and cherished presence in his local community. He was a devoted Catholic and member of St. James Catholic Church in Lannon for many years. He also frequented the local restaurant, Rumors, where staff enjoyed his company and his friendly spirit. Larry and his family enjoyed gatherings at the Venice Club restaurant until it closed, creating many cherished memories. He also valued the strong sense of involvement and mutual care among the members of the Brandon Oaks neighborhood, where neighbors look out for each other like extended family.

He was a collector at heart, especially of Farmall diecast tractors and souvenirs from his travels. But his greatest treasures were his four grandchildren and one great-grandchild, who adored him for his warmth, sharp mind, and legendary sense of humor.

A passionate sports fan, Larry followed his favorite teams—the Iowa State Cyclones, Milwaukee Brewers, Green Bay Packers, and Milwaukee Bucks—with unwavering loyalty. While he had his favorites, he truly enjoyed following all professional sports, appreciating the excitement and camaraderie each game brought. When he wasn't watching a game, he could often be found working on a crossword puzzle — always in pencil — or delivering a perfectly timed one-liner that left everyone in stitches.

Larry shared a lifetime of friendship with John and Shirley Priefer and Jerry and Joan Wentlandt, bonds that spanned an incredible 64 years and brought him much joy. He was also very close with Dale Damm, whom he considered family, and who bonded with Larry over their shared love of sports and could always brighten his day. Larry thought of Deb and John Brunner, long term friends of Amy, like a son and daughter, cherishing their kindness and support whenever he needed.

Larry lived a life rich in love, laughter, hard work, and faith. He will be remembered not just for the things he did, but for the way he made people feel — seen, valued, and loved.

Larry’s family would like to thank the healthcare team at Froedtert Menomonee Falls hospital for the love and attention he received during his brief stay there. Especially to Emmy Sippel, NP, who went above and beyond caring for him.

Services for Larry will be November 8, at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home, N84 W17937 Menomonee Ave. Menomonee Falls, 53051. Visitation is from noon until time of service at 2pm. Memorials can be made out to Amy Schneider. The Pitzen family will donate the funds to several charities independently at a later date.

There is currently road construction on Menomonee Ave. in front of the Funeral Home. You can enter off Menomonee Ave. coming westbound but not eastbound. There are two other entrances to the Funeral Home. You can enter off of Town Hall Rd. on the westside of the building or off of Shady Lane on the eastside of the building.