Dr. Earl Dean Katzer

Dr. Earl D. Katzer, age 90 of Jamul, California, passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025 in Yuma, AZ.

Born Earl Dean Katzer on August 11, 1934 in Waterloo, IA, the son of Frank and Lucy (Hess) Katzer. He attended Felix Township Country School, Conrad Elementary and graduated from Conrad High School in 1952. Earl continued his education at Iowa State University, earning an animal husbandry bachelor’s degree (‘57) and a doctorate of veterinary medicine (‘63).

Dr. Earl moved to California in 1965, where he built his dream career in veterinary medicine. He owned a practice in El Cajon, California and later in Jamul, California. Earl’s passion was caring for animals, but he had a heart of gold when caring for people too; offering them a helpful hand or a job to those in need.

Earl had a strong faith and was a dedicated member of Shadow Mountain Church in El Cajon, California. He loved to travel, ski and to go fishing. He embraced his Midwest roots by raising sheep and ostriches and cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones sports teams.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents: Frank and Lucy; his wife, Lisa; his siblings: Cora, Martha (Don) and Russell (Mildred); along with his pets: Brutus, Daisy, Killer, Buddy, Chewy, and July. He is survived by his sister, Edy Katzer of Iowa City; his nieces and nephews: Pam, Holly, Gretchen, Nancy, Kevin, Brett and Todd; step-daughter, Melissa (Greg) Perry, their children, Nicole and Drew; and several great nieces and nephews.

A family-led celebration of Earl’s life will be held from 3:00 until 5:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at the Alice Church of God in Conrad, Iowa.

Mitchell Family Funeral Home has been entrusted to care for Earl’s family. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com. Ph. 641-844-1234.