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Philip “Phil” Loren Lietz, 82, of Storm Lake passed away peacefully on Oct. 18, 2025, from natural causes related to Parkinson’s disease.
Phil was born on June 7, 1943, in Alta to Lorenz and Wiona (Rieman) Lietz. After graduating from Buena Vista College, he proudly served his country in the United States Army, spending time overseas in Germany.
A lifelong resident of the Alta and Storm Lake area, Phil was passionate about farming the land he grew up on, tending it with care and dedication. He took great pride in the family farm and found special joy each spring when the baby calves arrived.
Faith was a cornerstone of Phil’s life. He was a devoted member of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Hanover, where he faithfully served in many roles on the church council for several years. A man of few words but a giant heart, Phil’s quiet strength, humility, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Phil is survived by his sisters, Maes Sandine of Storm Lake and Ruth Smit of Sturgis, S.D.; his nephew Craig Smit and family of Big Sky, Mon.; and niece Renae Schumacher and family of Big Sky, Mont.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lorenz Lietz and Wiona (Rieman) Lietz.
Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 24, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Fratzke and Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Hanover, with a reception immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Phil’s honor may be directed to St. John’s Lutheran Church of Hanover.
Phil’s legacy of faith, hard work and love of the land will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
