John Larry Fitz

John Larry Fitz, 74, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on February 2, 2019 at Ennoble Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by his family.

Funeral service will be at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, February 9th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Jack Redmon officiating and military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6. Family and friends may visit after 1:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home until time of service.

John was born on June 6, 1944 in Waterloo, Iowa the son of Frank and Anna (Thompson) Fitz. He was a United States Marine during the Vietnam War, serving from November 17, 1962 to August 16, 1966.

He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity, Summa Cum Laude, and Master’s Degrees in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Dubuque.

He married Betty Elaine Bateman on August 26, 1972 at Faith United Methodist Church in Dubuque.

John was self-employed. He owned and operated a roofing and siding company, did small home improvements, recovered and refinished furniture, small engine repair and lawn care.

He was a member of the American Legion Post 6 and the American Red Cross.

He loved boating, camping, and fishing, as well as sharing the vast knowledge he had gained over the years. He ruled his home with an iron fist, yet he had a strong sense of humor and was always trying to embarrass you.

He is survived by his wife Betty; Daughters Tammy (Jeff) Benson, Ardeth (Jason) Steffen, Nichole (Josh) Hocking and there 6 children; eight grandchildren, Tasha, Jessica, Jake, Sierra, Drake, Kaden, Skyla, Treyton; 6 great grandchildren; Brothers Gene (Shirley) Fitz, Ron (Janet) Fitz, Harold (Anna) Fitz; Sisters Patti Shinneman, Jodeen Fitz, Barbara Welsh, Shirley (Larry) Davis, Marsha Schulz, Rhonda ( Chuck) Smith; and many nieces and nephews.  

John was preceded in death by his parents; Father and Mother-in-law Gerald and Elnora Bateman; son Carlton Fitz; Grandson David; Granddaughter Alonna; Brothers Russell, Frankie; and his special dog Gemini.

The family wishes to extend very special thank you to the Theresa Schoenfeld, Hospice of Dubuque, Jen Fondell, and the Rockstar treatment from Ennoble Nursing and Rehab.   

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