Leatrice Arlene Wirtz

Leatrice Arlene Wirtz, 101, of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Oak Crossing. 

Leatrice was born on December 12, 1923, the oldest daughter of William and Thora (Thorson) Joy in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Leatrice lived and grew up at the State Fish Hatchery grounds. Leatrice graduated from Holmes School in Detroit Lakes in 1942. After graduation, Leatrice moved to California to work in the shipyards to do her part for the war. She later returned to Detroit Lakes and completed Business school. 

On November 14,1946, she married Donald Wirtz, the love of her life, at the Holy Rosary Parish house. They were married for 58 years before Donald passed away. Throughout their lives they raised 8 children, Donna Valentine (Mickey Davidson), Joy Hannon, Patti (Tom) Spry, Mary (Darel) McKenzie, Donald Jr (Kimmie) Wirtz, Barbara Wirtz (Michael Freeman), John (Kathy) Wirtz, and Robert (Ki) Wirtz. (all surviving). 

Leatrice was a hard worker and she and Donald ran several businesses throughout their lives. The restaurant business was a cornerstone, and Leatrice was well known for her fabulous cooking and baking. Leatrice was passionate about her volunteer work. She belonged to the DAV, Catholic Daughters, Christian Mothers, American Legion Auxiliary, Voice of Democracy, and Patriots Pens. Leatrice held several positions within these organizations and was presented with countless awards for her volunteer work. 

Leatrice enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren and large extended family. She was a great seamstress and made most of her children's clothing (matching, of course!) She enjoyed crafting, cooking and baking. Leatrice is a local treasure and a true leader but her greatest gift was her genuine love and kindness she extended to everyone who crossed her path! 

Leatrice is survived by her 8 children, 16 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, 6 great great grandchildren; siblings, Ronald Joy, Natalie Bellefeuille: sister-in-law, Lois Joy and numerous nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly. 

Leatrice was preceded in death by her husband Donald Louis Wirtz, her parents, William and Thora Joy, two brothers, William Joy, Wilbur Joy; and one sister, Eileen Henderson.

Services for Leatrice will be conducted on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, beginning with public visitation at 11am, and funeral mass at 12:00pm.  A time of food and fellowship will immediately follow.

***This funeral Mass will also be livestreamed: it will go live 30 minutes prior to the Mass starting. 

https://www.youtube.com/@holyrosarycatholicchurchde380/streams