Maurice Fitzer

MAURICE ROGER FITZER was born on October 10, 1926 to Benjamin and Anna (Husen) Fitzer on the family farm in Luverne Township of Rock County, Minnesota. This farm later became a Century Farm in 2003. Maurice was raised here and attended District 13 country school through the 8th grade. He continued his education in Luverne and graduated from Luverne High School in 1944. On April 9, 1948 Maurice was united in marriage to Helen Stein at the First Presbyterian Church in Luverne. The couple made their home on the Fitzer land where they raised their family and continued the farming operation. In 1983, Maurice retired from farming and the couple moved into town. Even after retirement, he enjoyed heading out to the farm and helping his son continue the family heritage. Maurice and Helen later downsized from their house to an apartment before moving to Poplar Creeks Assisted Living. On Monday, January 4, 2016, Maurice passed away with family present by his side at the Good Samaritan Society – Mary Jane Brown Home at the age of 89 years, two months and 25 days.

Maurice was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Luverne for 57 years. During his life he served the church as an Elder and a Deacon. He served his community as past director of the Beaver Creek Elevator, Beaver Creek Mutual Insurance, and the Rock County Coop Oil Company. He was a member of the Lions Club, the Agricultural Soil and Conservation committee, and the Luverne Township Board. He was also a dedicated member of the Rock County Historical Society – to which he was integral for preserving the agricultural history of Rock County. Maurice was a good steward to the land. He was passionate about farming and gardening. Maurice enjoyed fishing and spending time at the cabin they owned in Lake Benton. He especially loved being with his grandchildren.

Maurice is lovingly remembered by his wife of 67 years, Helen; two sons, Gregg (Laurie) Fitzer of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota and Geff (Jackie) Fitzer of Luverne; eight grandchildren, Gina (Kris) Jacobsen, Katie (Dennis) Haugland, Grant (Alexandra) Fitzer, Brynn Fitzer, Tori (Matthew) Carper, Chris Fitzer (Jessica Quittem), Mikki Fitzer and Connor Fitzer (Lauren Muller); and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Gary Fitzer; parents, Ben and Anna Fitzer; and a sister, Margaret Nelson.

Memorials may be directed to the Rock County Historical Society.