Howard P. Pitz

Howard Paul Pitz, 93, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, peacefully passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at the Centerville Care and Rehabilitation Center.

Howard was born on January 14, 1931, to Mike and Clara (Spiel) Pitz in Ipswich, South Dakota. He was raised on a farm near Mina, South Dakota, and attended a rural country school. As an only child, Howard worked alongside his father on the farm. In his youth, he ventured off the farm to pursue music, played in a band, and played baseball with the Aberdeen Pheasants. He later worked at the Aberdeen sale barn and as a mechanic at a car dealership.

On May 11, 1953, Howard married Marie Malsom in Ipswich, South Dakota. The couple settled in Aberdeen, South Dakota. In 1961, the family relocated to Sioux Falls.

Howard worked as a clerk in the parts department at Ben Hur Ford Car Dealership in Sioux Falls, where he retired in 1993 after more than 30 years of service.

Howard worked hard to ensure his family was well cared for, and he continuously sought to learn new skills, primarily through self-teaching. He was the go-to person for friends and family when it came to rejuvenating, remodeling, rewiring, plumbing, plastering, adding a garage, or even helping to build houses. His willingness to help others showcased his incredible talents. Howard enjoyed riding his bicycle, loved to dance and listen to music, and was an accomplished musician and singer. 

Howard is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Marie Pitz of Sioux Falls; their children, Dennis (Sherri) Pitz of Jefferson, SD; Steven (Candy) Pitz of Sioux Falls; David (Linda) Pitz of Garretson, SD; Donna (Jim) Hauk of Deltona, FL; Terry Pitz of Slayton, MN; Kevin Pitz of Fort Denaud, FL; Cindy (Mitch Anderson) Pitz of Morro Bay, CA; and Leslie (Stacie) Pitz of Grantsville, UT. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Clara Pitz.