John F. Lietzow

John F. Lietzow, 85, of La Crescent, MN passed away peacefully at home on September 20, 2024, from multiple myeloma, surrounded by his family. He was born June 3rd, 1939, in La Crosse, WI to Max and Mildred Lietzow. A graduate of Logan High School, class of 1957, John went on to earn his degree in pharmacy from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He spent over 40 years as a pharmacist at Lutheran Hospital and later became a relief pharmacist at various rural hospitals before retiring at the age of 80. 

John was an avid runner and participated in many marathons. He had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed camping and traveling all over the world. He was known for his loving, kind, generous, patient, and accepting nature. He was a devoted father and grandfather. One of his proudest achievements was his service in the Navy. He enlisted in the Navy after high school. Given his passion and dedication to serve his country, he re-enlisted in the Navy later in life during Desert Storm as a pharmacist. He retired as a Lt.Commander. In addition to his professional and military accomplishments, John generously gave his time to various organizations, including his church, the American Legion Color Guard, and St. Claire’s Mission. 

John is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Carol (Burkhart) Lietzow; his three daughters: Denise (Jeff) Servais, Christine Lietzow, and Rebecca (Cesar) Magana; his granddaughters: Charlotte, Madeleine, Maya, and Mallory; his sister, Karen (Andy) Anderson, and their children, Linda and Julie; as well as many other beloved family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Mildred Lietzow; his parents-in-law, Gretchen and Robert Burkhart; and his brothers-in-law, Thomas and Michael Burkhart.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the Mayo Hospice team for their compassionate care.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, September 28th at Crucifixion Catholic Church in La Crescent with Father John L. Evans II officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in the Crucifixion Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 9:30 A.M. until the time of the Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John’s memory may be made to the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association USA (https://www.pwsausa.org), Crucifixion Church or School or to a charity of you choice.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”