Loren Eugene Deetz

Loren Eugene Deetz

Iowa City

Loren Eugene Deetz, 86, of Iowa City, passed away peacefully on October 21 at Windmill Manor surrounded by the love and presence of his family. The family extends their sincere appreciation to Barb Rife, Home Instead, Windmill Manor, and Compassus Hospice for their care of Loren.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church at 11 AM. Visitation will be held from 9-11 AM at the church. A luncheon will follow immediately after the service. Public burial will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery in Cedar Rapids on Monday, November 3, 2025, with a time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, the Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of your choice.

Loren was born on August 30, 1939, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of George and Zelma (Wittkop) Deetz. He was a graduate of Washington High School and a student at the University of Iowa. Loren married Jeanette Cooper on January 21, 1961, in Cedar Rapids and to this union two daughters, Sandra and Terri, were born.

Loren worked as a linotype machine operator for over 40 years. His final position was with the University of Iowa’s printing department, where he served as their last linotype operator before retiring in 2002. His retirement marked the end of a fading craft.

Loren was an avid and lifelong fan of the Hawkeyes. He was a season ticket holder for over 50 years! He was also a loyal Chicago Cubs fan. Aside from sporting events, Loren enjoyed riding his bicycle and taking day trips throughout Iowa. He was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and assisted as an elder for many years.

Loren is survived by special friend, Donna Weber; two daughters, Sandra (Rick) Thorington and Terri Deetz; nieces and nephews, Karen (Ed) Herring, Janis (Mike) Gillaspie, Barb Deetz, Scott (Kathryn) Deetz, Kim (Charlie) Duffy, Debbie (Scott) Davey, Jan (Ken) Arthur; and many great-nieces and -nephews, including members of both his extended and bonus families: Harry and Wendy Foster, Alice and Bob Weber, Lori Foster, Amy Foster, and Ron O’Neal.

Loren is preceded in death by his wife; Jeanette (Cooper) Deetz; his parents; siblings, George, Roger (Dixie), Edward (Bea), and Rollis (Shirley); nephew, Tom Deetz; niece, Denise Deetz; and bonus family members, Harry and Dorothy Foster, David and Nancy Foster, Martha Paul, and Julia Foster.