Belmont “Tiny” Lee Lorenz, 74, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on the morning of October 31, 2026, after a nearly two-year battle with interstitial lung disease.

Tiny was born on March 18, 1952, in Arcadia, Wisconsin, to Beldon and Delores Lorenz. He grew up in Galesville alongside his brothers and sisters.

Tiny was the first in his family to attend and graduate from college, an accomplishment of which he was incredibly proud. He attended the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Physical Education. He went on to dedicate his career to teaching at Logan Middle School in La Crosse, where he taught for 33 years, until his retirement. His impact extended far beyond the classroom, and he is still fondly remembered by generations of former students.

A gifted athlete, Tiny was an elite powerlifter with a lifelong passion for sports, particularly wrestling. He shared that passion as a wrestling coach, mentoring countless young athletes, including his own son, nephews, and grandkids. Through coaching, he passed along his knowledge, competitive spirit, and love of the sport.

Tiny was also a well-known and beloved figure in the La Crosse community. Alongside his brothers, he became something of a local legend, recognized for his athleticism, larger-than-life personality, and unmistakable presence. He was especially passionate about disc golf, and some of his most treasured moments were spent on the course with his son and grandchildren, sharing a game he loved with the next generation.

If you knew Tiny, you knew he was rarely one to sit still. He could often be found walking just about everywhere, striking up conversations with friends and strangers alike. He never seemed to meet someone he couldn’t talk to, and he certainly never ran out of stories to tell. His infamous tales, larger-than-life personality, and unforgettable voice were all part of what made Tiny so uniquely himself.

Whether he was teaching, coaching, playing disc golf, or simply stopping to visit with someone along the way, Tiny left an impression. He was a man who made himself known, and once you met him, you were unlikely to forget him. His stories will continue to be told, his voice remembered, and his presence deeply missed by the many people whose lives crossed paths with his.

Tiny is survived by his life partner, Virginia Dayton, and his ex-wife and dear friend, Mary Lorenz. He is also survived by his daughter, Christina Lorenz, and grandchildren Alex, Isaac, Maggie, Sierra, Thea, Madilyn, and Todd. His daughter, Michelle Tryggestad (Brock), and grandchildren Casey, Caleb, and Levi. His son, John (Janna, longtime partner), and grandsons Aesop and Louie Lorenz (of John and Audreyona Chavez). His daughter, Kayla Lorenz. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren: Azrael, Blaze, and Estella. Tiny is also survived by his siblings: Belva, Donald “Viner” (Mary), Belwood “Butch,” Belinda, Belaine (Tom), Belrey, and Belissa.He was preceded in death by his parents, Beldon and Delores; his sister, Brenda; and his granddaughter, Maddie.

A celebration of Tiny’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, 200 West Avenue South, La Crosse, Wisconsin. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Thursday, November 12, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, and again on Friday, November 13, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, prior to the service.

Following the celebration of life, a burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery. Family and friends are then warmly invited to gather at Pettibone Boathouse for a meal, fellowship, and the sharing of cherished memories of Tiny.