Junior Dietzel Obituary

Lawrence Allie "Junior" Dietzel, age 85, of Centertown, Mo., passed away peacefully Monday, October 6, 2025, at his home with his family by his side.
Junior was born on July 28, 1940, in Lupus, Mo., to the late Lawrence Henry and Dora Frances (Brizendine) Dietzel. Junior was united in marriage to Judith Ann "Judy" Lampe on May 11, 1967, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Judy who was his best friend, confidant, business partner, and greatest love for over 58 years.
The Dietzel family moved to Jamestown, Mo., in 1947 in search for work as sharecroppers. Shortly after their move, his parents purchased the local restaurant and pool hall, leading Junior to discover his talent for shooting pool and adding to his pocket change after countless wins, starting at the age of 7 when he had to play standing on a milk crate. Junior attended and graduated from Jamestown High School in 1958. During his high school years, he played basketball for the Jamestown Eagles. He received the Curator's Scholarship to Lincoln University and attended the college for a brief time before entering the workforce.
Junior's working career began at McGraw Edison in Boonville, Mo., until 1963 when he went to Manefee Construction on West Highway I-70 working as a road grade checker. He then went to work as a carpenter in the maintenance garage for the Missouri Highway Department before transferring to the main office in the Data Processing Department in 1965.
In 1966, Junior proudly joined the Missouri National Guard with a willingness to serve his country and fellow citizens. He rose to the rank of E-5 and received honorable discharge in 1972. During his 6-year tenure, he received his qualification as expert rifleman and mastered his electrical skills working as an engine power train repairman.
Junior went to work for G & H Electric and Neon Sign Company in 1967 which led him to purchasing the sign portion in 1976 along with his wife, Judy. The couple started Bee Seen Signs, Inc., that same year. Junior served as the company's president until 2009, and then as vice-president until he and Judy sold the business in 2022. He took great pride in mentoring young sign company entrepreneurs, always willing to answer their questions. He also served as president of the Missouri Sign Association and on several boards of the Central Sign Counsel and International Sign Association, and many committees of the World Sign Associates. Working alongside his wife and two sons for over 46 years made his distinguished career both worthwhile and fulfilling.
While he was no stranger to hard work, Junior also knew how to have fun. He took an interest in dirt track racing shortly after high school, driving sprint cars for G & H Electric and Neon Sign Company beginning in 1965. He won numerous races across 7 different states. After the arrival of his sons, Junior hung up his racing suit but remained an avid fan and supporter of the sport throughout his life.
Along with racing, Junior had numerous additional hobbies that he excelled in. He was an avid bowler until arthritis in his hands forced him to set the sport aside, a passion he shared with his sons, Tony and Travis. He loved golf, especially playing on Wednesdays at the Jefferson City Country Club with the senior golfers, affectionately called "Geezer Golf." Some of his favorite moments, however, were spent on his farm - whether brush hogging or simply taking in the quiet beauty of the land he loved.
If you knew Junior, you could consider yourself extremely lucky. He never met anyone that he didn't like, never talked negatively about anyone or anything, and had extraordinary patience in all situations. He had a tremendous, sometimes odd, sense of humor and quick wit which made an encounter with him unforgettable. Unfortunately, he took a serious fall early in 2025 which dramatically changed his lifestyle. In true Junior fashion, he played the hand that was dealt to him with grace and his sense of humor intact.
Above all, Junior adored and was extremely proud of his family. From raising his boys to running the family business alongside them, he took pride in shaping them into hardworking, dedicated men with the same quick wit he possessed. He loved traveling with Judy, making memories everywhere they went. He always said that he was happiest and most content when Judy was by his side. Through all of life's trials and triumphs, Junior and Judy were the true definition of commitment, devotion, and unconditional love.
Junior's life stands as a lasting example of hard work, dedication, and a love for life's simple joys. He built his legacy through the people he cared for, the passions he pursued, and the integrity he carried in all he did. His impact will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know and love him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Judy; two sons, Tony Dietzel of Jefferson City, Mo., and Travis Dietzel of Homosassa, Fl.; one grandson, Chase Dietzel of Columbia, Mo.; one granddaughter, Lauren Dietzel of St. Louis, Mo.; and a host of extended family and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Dora; half-sister, Marie; and half-brother, Jack.
A celebration of Junior's life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Freeman Mortuary, with a reception to follow until 3:30 p.m. in the Freeman Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested and encouraged to St. Paul's Evangelical Cemetery Fund, 149 E. Row Street, Jamestown, MO 65046.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.
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