Larry Winans Obituary, Death – The Lewisburg, Pennsylvania community and the broader craft brewing world are mourning the sudden passing of Larry Winans, co-owner of Jackass Brewing Co., who died after suffering a cardiac arrest during a local Ironman 70.3 event. His unexpected death has left family, friends, colleagues, and the many people connected to his brewery devastated.
According to a statement shared by co-owner Skip Kratzer, Larry experienced a severe medical emergency during the swimming portion of the endurance race. Despite the rapid response and sustained efforts of first responders and medical personnel, he could not be revived. His passing has been described by those closest to him as heartbreaking and deeply difficult to process.
Larry Winans is being remembered not only as a business owner but as a passionate individual whose life journey helped shape a successful and community-centered brewery. Long before Jackass Brewing Co. became a recognized name, Larry and his co-founder began as friends experimenting with homebrewing. What started as a shared hobby gradually evolved into something much larger, fueled by enthusiasm, creativity, and a desire to share their work with others.
In a heartfelt reflection, Kratzer recalled how their hobby grew from small, frequent brewing sessions into a full commitment that eventually outpaced what they could consume themselves. Larry’s idea—to begin sharing their beer with others—became the foundation of what would later grow into Jackass Brewing Co. That simple decision marked the beginning of a business built on friendship, passion, and community connection.
Over time, the brewery expanded into a beloved local establishment with two locations, both of which will remain open following Larry’s passing. According to Kratzer, continuing operations is a way of honoring Larry’s vision and preserving the legacy he helped create. Staff members and leadership have expressed their determination to carry forward the work he believed in while also allowing space for mourning and reflection.
Beyond his professional achievements, Larry is being remembered as a devoted friend, husband, and community member whose presence made a lasting impact on those around him. Those who knew him describe him as driven, generous, and deeply committed to the people and passions he cared about. His participation in endurance sports, including the Ironman event, reflected his determination and dedication to personal challenges and growth.
The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the brewing community, fellow athletes, friends, and customers. Many have shared memories of his kindness, leadership, and the welcoming environment he helped create through his work. For those who visited Jackass Brewing Co., Larry’s influence is seen not just in the business itself, but in the culture of community and connection it fostered.
In the wake of this tragedy, the brewery community has emphasized unity and support for Larry’s family, especially his wife, who has been navigating the difficult reality of this loss alongside loved ones. Messages of sympathy continue to pour in as people reflect on the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.
Larry Winans will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his friendship, and his role in building something that brought people together. Though his passing leaves a significant void, the impact of his work and the relationships he built will continue to endure.
The thoughts and condolences of the community remain with Larry’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who are grieving this profound loss. May they find comfort in shared memories and strength in the legacy he leaves behind.
