LaVerne Carl Itzen

LaVerne Carl Itzen, age 85, of Pittsville, WI, passed away peacefully on  March 20th, 2025, at Marshfield Medical Center.

LaVerne was born August 27th, 1939, the son of Edward and Ruby (Koppen) Itzen in Pittsville, where he lived his entire life.  He was the class of 1956 valedictorian. On June 11, 1960, LaVerne was united in marriage to the love of his life Ruth (York) Itzen. They wed at the Veedum Moravian Church and were blessed with 65 years of marriage.

He wore many hats during his vast career.  LaVerne was a manager for many years with both Kerry, and WOW Logistics, and his favorite occupation was being a farmer. He instilled strong values in his children and grandchildren, demonstrating resilience and grit, the importance of thoughtful information seeking, a strong work ethic, loyalty, and the importance of hearty laughter and humor. 

LaVerne enjoyed caring for his many animals and taking ATV rides to visit his neighbors.  He especially enjoyed being the annual Itzen Christmas cookie  bake-off judge. Those that knew him  best will miss his laugh, eccentric sense of humor and many stories.

LaVerne is lovingly survived by his wife: Ruth Ann Itzen; children: Jeff (Sheila) Itzen of Hayward, Jeanne (Steve) Loken of Marshfield,  Julie (Tim) Freeck of Marshfield; grandchildren: Jessica (Justin) Itzen of Marshfield, Nike (Emily) Itzen of Wisconsin Rapids,  Marlee (Matthew) Freeck of Marshfield; great grandchildren: Ben and Lincoln of Marshfield. He is further survived by nieces, nephews and his beloved dog, Zoe.

He was preceded in death by his son,  Daniel Itzen; his parents, Edward and Ruby Itzen; and siblings: Elmer Itzen,  Irene Grano and Marlene Itzen.

A private memorial service will be held on Friday, March 28th, 2025, at the Hansen-Schilling Funeral Home in Marshfield.

LaVerne’s family would like to express their gratitude and thanks for the staff members of Marshfield Medical Center for their kindness and care; and to special friends and neighbors: Denny and Bev Palmer, Allen and Denise Herkert, Mark Henke, and Bill Zieher  for all their help and support; Paster Aaron Herman for your compassion and special connection that meant a lot to LaVerne;  “10 women and a dog”  bible study group at North Ridge church for your faithfulness and continued prayers.

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