Elmer W. Kitzman

Elmer W. Kitzman, 98, of LaSalle, CO passed away on June 11, 2014. He was born in Loveland, CO to Henry and Elizabeth (Pfaltzgrapff) Kitzman on February 6, 1916. Elmer was one of 11 children. He grew up on a farm near Kuner (Weld County) where he learned the value of hard work, compromise and his love for farming.

Elmer and his love Martha Warner were married August 12, 1938 in Greeley, CO. The marriage was blessed with three children, Frances (Jerry) Roth of Fort Collins, Charlene (Jim) Marker of Loveland and Elmer Jr. (Audrey) of Platteville. Martha passed away in 2007 after 68 years of marriage.

Elmer and Martha raised their children on farms in the LaSalle, Wiggins and Platteville areas. In 1973 after 35 years he retired from farming and then worked for Weld County Road and Bidge division for 8 years before retiring at age 65.

He loved to farm and raise cattle, was very proud of his Great Western “High Ten” awards for sugar beets. He enjoyed fishing and camping (Gould CO & Canada), playing and watching baseball, the Broncos, playing cards and watching his grandkids and great-grandkids play sports.

Elmer belonged to the Platte Valley Grange (was a 50+ member), Kersey and LaSalle Seniors and Sunrise Sams (Camping Chapter).

He is survived by his children, Grandchildren--Mark Vannest, Scott Roth, Dena Vannest, Kris Delehoy, Pete Kitzman and Ben Kitzman, 12 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren, sisters Elsie Sitzman, Esther Messman and Lillian DeCarlois, brothers Gus Kitzman, Ed Kitzman and numerous nephews and nieces.

Preceded in death by his parents, brothers Art, Reuben, Alvin and sisters Emma and Olinda.

A special “Thank You” to Elaine Pearson (his care giver, neighbor and friend) who took care of Elmer for 2 years and her husband Doug, daughter and granddaughters. He loved Elaine’s little dog. Thank you to Gentiva Hospice, CNAs Roxanne and Rhonda and nurse Julie.

Elmer was loved and respected by all who knew him and will truly be missed. After 98 years we got used to having him around.

A “Celebration of Life Pot Luck” will be held at the LaSalle Fire Department on Saturday, June 21 from 11am--2pm.

In memory of Elmer, donations may be made to the LaSalle Fire Department.