Earl W. Litz

1925 - 2011

LORAIN - Earl W. Litz, 86 of Lorain, passed away in his sleep at the Autumn Aegis Retirement Community after a brief illness. Earl was born March 31, 1925 in Elyria, Ohio and was raised in the old "Stop 7" area. Earl graduated from Clearview High School in 1942 and immediately joined the US Navy during WWII. He was a Gunner's Mate serving on a Destroyer Escort in the Atlantic Theater. He also served in the South Pacific with the Naval Amphibious Forces and was credited with shooting down two Japanese Zeroes. Earl received many decorations, including the Phillipine Liberation Medal. Upon returning from the War, Earl married Julia Mathenitis and later they had a son. Earl worked various jobs over the years, beginning as an able seaman on the Great Lakes, the GM Plant in Elyria, the Air Reduction Co. in Lorain until its closure, and finally as a foreman for the Union Carbide Corp in Lorain from which he retired. Earl enjoyed fishing, bowling, hunting and spending time with his family, especially later in life with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Earl was involved with several veteran's organizations and was a Life Member of VFW Post 451 of Lorain. Earl was preceded in death by his parents Earl A. and Margaret Litz, sisters Jean Waters and Dolores Dlugosz, and his dear wife of 59 years, Julia. He is survived by his son, Earl (Shari) Litz, Granddaughter Elisabeth, Grandson Eric, Great Grandchildren Anthony, Joseph, Dayton, Madeline, Eric Jr., and Ashleigh. Private services will be held at a later date at the home of his son. Memorial contributions may be made in Earl's name to Autumn Aegis Retirement Community, 1130 Tower Blvd., Lorain, Ohio 44052.