Dr. Roger Pitts

Roger Paul Pitts, 72, passed away on Friday, June 5, 2020. He lived a life devoted to the healing of animals and also possessed an exceptional compassion for people. He was born on July 2, 1947 in Portsmouth, VA. Roger served in the United States Air Force from 1968-1972. He graduated in 1979 from the University of Minnesota School of Veterinary Medicine, earning many distinguished awards. He then completed his Veterinary Internship at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, followed by a residency at Colorado State University. In 1983 he accepted a faculty position at the University of Wisconsin, Madison teaching hospital where he developed a strong affinity for instructing aspiring veterinarians. Meanwhile he earned a Diplomate degree certification from the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine in 1984. In 1985 he was the first board certified internist in private practice in Denver, CO where he remained until he started a veterinary referral practice in Duluth, MN in 1991. His life was dedicated to the care and advocacy for all the less fortunate animals, volunteering as the veterinarian for Animal Allies for 8 years and walking dogs at the shelter every Sunday morning for 7 years. He also adopted and doted on 4 marvelous shelter dogs and 2 affectionate cats. His favorite time of day was walking his dog, Lewis through the woods in the early morning hours. Roger’s easy demeanor and gentle nature will be deeply missed. His exceptional intelligence was only surpassed by his kindness and empathy.

We’re so grateful for the help from many excellent healthcare professionals and the singularly compassionate attention and friendship of Dr. Timothy Kleinschmidt.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Adeline E. Pitts

He is survived by his life companion Anne Bernauer and his beloved dog Lewis; his two sisters Nancy Giebler of Woodbury, MN and Dorothy Nowlin (Denny) of Woodbury, MN; many nieces and nephews and countless incredible friends, furry and otherwise.

No services are planned at this time.

Please address any memorials to Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank,  4503 Airpark Blvd., Duluth, MN. 55811, Union Gospel Mission, 219 E. 1st. St., Duluth, MN. 55802 or Save the Brays Donkey Rescue,12788 115th St., Milaca, MN. 56353.

Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, Duluth, 218-727-3555.