Edward I. Wirtemburg, Jr., affectionately known as “Skip,” was born on March 5, 1953, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He left this world on June 10, 2025, at the Suncoast Hospice Care Center in North Pinellas, after bravely battling an extended illness. His life, spanning over 72 years, was marked by love, service, and a deep commitment to family and friends.
Skip was the beloved son of Edward I. and Viola (Conway) Wirtemburg. He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Debra Wade, and his brother Kurt Wirtemburg. Skip’s absence will be profoundly felt by those he leaves behind, including his devoted wife, Marie, whom he married on February 9, 1991, at the Light of Christ Church in Clearwater, Florida. Together, they shared 34 years filled with love and companionship.
Skip was a proud U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran. His service to his country reflected his dedication and bravery, traits that he carried into all aspects of his life. After his honorable discharge in 1973, he resided in the San Diego area before returning to Florida in 1984, where he built a fulfilling career. For over 20 years, he worked diligently in maintenance and pest control for Pinellas County schools, earning the respect and admiration of those he worked alongside.
Family was at the heart of Skip’s life. He is survived by his son, Sean Wirtemburg, and his wife, Catie; his daughter, Miriah Morrison-Steele, and her husband, Jason; his brother, Dane Wirtemburg, and his wife, Diane; and his sisters, Karen Pinney and Cheryl Sitton, and her husband, Steven. Skip also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom cherished him dearly.
Skip was known for his love of the outdoors. He found joy in boating, fishing, camping, and hunting. He often spent serene moments enjoying Fuente cigars and a glass of red wine while relaxing by his backyard pool. His passions reflected his zest for life and the simple pleasures he treasured. Skip was also known as a great storyteller.
As a husband, father, and friend, Skip was a loving and supportive presence in the lives of many. He was well-loved and respected by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering support were hallmarks of his character, and he will be greatly missed by all who were touched by his life.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Raymond Hanson, III, Florida Cancer Specialists, and the staff at Suncoast Hospice Care Center North Pinellas for the exceptional care provided to Skip during his illness. The support from family, friends, and neighbors has been invaluable during this difficult time.
A celebration of Skip’s life will be held later in the year. His cremated remains will be scattered in the Gulf of Mexico by his immediate family.
The family requests that donations be made to the Suncoast Hospice Care Center North Pinellas in his memory.
As we say goodbye to Skip, we hold onto the beautiful memories he created and the love he shared. Though he may be gone from our sight, he will forever remain in our hearts.
Still I see you on the other side my friend. To his family ,friends , Sean and to my dear friend Marie, my sincere condolences. A man and friend that will never be forgotten, too many shenanigans to ever forget his laugh. The Party Animal!
Skip was a good man through and through. He lived life in his terms and had so much love to give. The home that Skip and Marie made together always felt like a trip to Key West. You bet it was always 5:00 o’clock there. The pool talks, the baseball games, oh the games! But our favorite (of many favorites) were our talks about existential conversations, the point of everything and nothing, politics, his history muses, and opinions that we will never forget. There will never be another man like Skip in this world. And the world would be better if everyone carried just a pinch of his spirit…indeed, his zest of life. We will cherish the memories of the best late-night stories and heartfelt hugs for as long as we live. Hope we can meet again and smoke a cigar. Much love, light and comfort for all his loved ones during this time.
Our hearts are broken from the passing of our dear friend Skip.
He was a genuinely great man who loved his country, family & friends. We will miss all the fun times & conversations we had together. We will especially miss his smile, hugs, contagious laughter & zest for life. R.I.P. our dear friend. Till we meet again. 😘❤️
My friend of forty plus years will be dearly missed. Skip was the type of friend that even when some time passed we could always pick up as though we talked every day. Our families shared many happy memories down through the years weather special occasions or just get togethers. Hoping the grief will be softened for Marie and Sean by a life well lived and all those happy memories we all shared.
We will miss Skip very much.
His laugh, his stories and his cigar.
The times togther will be treasured.