Marcia Latz

Marcia Jean Latz, age 73, longtime resident of Rochester, MN and formerly of Grand Marais, MN passed away on March 7th, 2025, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, St Mary's Campus from complications of Type 1 diabetes. Marcia was born on November 22, 1951, in Grand Rapids, MN to Leon and Betty (Dowd) Latz. She graduated from Mayo High School in Rochester in 1970 and then earned a degree in English from the University of Minnesota. She moved to New York City to pursue a career in publishing before returning to Rochester.

If you knew Marcia, you experienced her passion and love for animals. Marcia founded REGAP (Retired Greyhounds As Pets) in Rochester and adored the work. Her volunteer efforts saved countless animals, uniting them with loving families. She worked with many animal rescue organizations such as Camp Companion in Rochester and an animal sanctuary in Utah. She also volunteered for Planned Parenthood in Rochester and was an active member of B'nai Israel Synagogue.

Marcia belonged to several groups and clubs where she shared her love for gardening, knitting, and reading. Halloween was her favorite holiday. Her playful spirit came out in full force. She decorated her yard and dressed herself and her pets as witches and various monsters, delighting and terrorizing young and old.

Marcia nurtured a broad range of deep friendships; she connected with all ages and types of people. She was the friend who cared first and asked questions later. She was the "auntie" who got down on the floor to play with Legos and dolls. Her smile would light up the room and her Latz sense of humor entertained all. She loved and was loved by so many.

Marcia is preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Betty, and many wonderful dogs and cats with whom she shared her life. She is survived by siblings, Jo Anne Latz (Peter Powell), Gary (Janice) Latz, Jeff (Anna) Latz, and John Latz; nieces and nephews, Ayal Latz, Brandon Mabe, Brian Jordan, Jenna Wagner and many great-nephews and nieces.

Services will be held at B'nai Israel Synagogue in Rochester on Monday, April 7 at 1 pm. Virtual participation will be facilitated via Zoom. For more information, contact the Synagogue at 507-288-5825. Details can be found on Marcia's Caring Bridge page.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to serve the Latz family; to share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.