Earl Wallace Equitz

Earl Equitz, age 70, passed away on November 18, 2025, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Born on April 26, 1955, Earl lived his entire life in the Sherman Park neighborhood of Milwaukee, in the Grasslyn Manor area, at the family home on North 50th Street-a house built in 1925 that became a cornerstone of his quiet, steady life.
Earl dedicated his career to serving the City of Milwaukee. He began in the Forestry Department and later worked as a driver until his retirement. A proud union member of Unit 423, Earl exemplified hard work and commitment. He also pursued evening courses at Milwaukee Area Technical College, always striving to learn and grow.
He was a man of deep kindness and unwavering devotion, caring for his mother throughout her life. Earl is survived by his brothers Kenneth and Gerald Equitz, nephews Bob and Scott, and niece Lorrie, all of whom cherished his gentle spirit.
Earl lived simply, valuing health, independence, and natural recovery. He was passionate about nutrition and fitness, biking more than 10 miles almost daily across Milwaukee. In his early 30s, Sundays were reserved for tennis with family, where his skill earned him the playful nickname "Earlitis," a nod to tennis great Vitas Gerulaitis. Those matches with his brothers and nephews were some of his happiest times.
He found comfort and trust at City on a Hill, where he appreciated the warmth and understanding of the people there. Earl also valued his time at the Marquette Physical Therapy Clinic, which aligned with his belief in non-invasive, exercise-based treatments that supported the body's natural ability to heal.
Earl enjoyed going to the library-not just for research, but to engage with the librarians, especially in the Ready Reference area. He found warmth and connection in those interactions, appreciating the kindness and knowledge of the people there.
Frugal and deliberate, Earl made choices guided by his own principles. He answered every phone call with a cheerful "White House," a subtle joke that captured his quiet humor. Earl did not laugh out loud-his humor was gentle, understated, and warm, the kind that made you smile without fanfare. It was never at anyone's expense, but always with a twinkle in his eye that reminded you not to take life too seriously.
Earl's life was marked by resilience, including his fight after being struck by a car and his recovery from a previous stroke. Sadly, this final stroke was too strong for him to overcome. Through it all, he remained gentle, polite, and steadfast-a man who never raised his voice, who listened more than he spoke, and who made everyone feel valued.
He will always be remembered by his last smile-a reflection of the warmth and kindness he carried throughout his life. Earl's presence was a steady light for those who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
Visitation, Tuesday, November 25 at the HARDER FUNERAL HOME from 4:00 until time of service at 6:00 PM.