In Memory: Dr. Laurel (Neff) Fritzen (PU DVM 2001)

The Purdue Veterinary Medicine family is saddened to learn that Dr. Laurel Michelle (Neff) Fritzen (PU DVM 2001) passed away suddenly at her home in Morton Grove, Ill., on December 11, 2019.  She was 45. Dr. Fritzen earned both her Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees at Purdue University in 1996 and 2001, respectively.  She is survived by her husband, Joe Fritzen, and two children.  Dr. Fritzen is remembered as someone who loved her animals, learning, books, crocheting and sewing, and Elton John, but most of all loved her family.  A memorial visitation was held Saturday, January 4, at Simkins Funeral Home in Morton Grove, Ill.

Memorial contributions may be made to PAWS Chicago or to the ASPCA.  Additionally, a GoFundMe page has been established to help the family.  More information is available at Evanston Funeral.com.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Recent Stories

“Paws Up” – brought to you by the PVM Wellness Committee

Today we are highlighting Dr. Michelle Tucker, who is an assistant professor of large animal surgery, for contributing to a rewarding learning environment here at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Purdue Veterinary Medicine and Purdue Football Share Bullish Outlook at Summer Event

Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Bret Marsh, DVM, recently attended the Purdue Football Coaches Celebration at McGraw’s Purdue Chop House in West Lafayette, where he connected with new Purdue Head Football Coach Barry Odom. The event, hosted by McGraw’s owner Todd McGraw, also featured an opportunity to meet “Odom,” the Purdue Beef Angus Bull that serves as the latest symbol of Boilermaker pride.

Recognition Ceremony Honors VCS Residents, Graduate Students, and Purdue Veterinary Hospital Interns

More than 100 faculty and staff of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences (VCS) and the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital (PVH) gathered at Lafayette’s Thomas Duncan Hall on Thursday, June 26 for the 2025 Resident and Intern Recognition Ceremony. The historic venue was a wonderful place to host this annual event that honors and celebrates the accomplishments of the VCS and PVH residents, interns, and graduate students who are completing their programs this summer.