LEWISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA — The craft brewing community across central Pennsylvania is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Larry Winans, co-founder of Jackass Brewing Company, who passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest during the swim portion of an Ironman 70.3 triathlon event.
According to statements shared by those connected to the brewery, the medical emergency occurred while Winans was participating in the race. Emergency responders and medical personnel immediately rushed to his aid and worked tirelessly to save his life. Despite their efforts, he sadly did not recover.
News of his passing has sent shockwaves through Lewisburg, Williamsport, and the wider Pennsylvania craft beer community, where Larry was known not only as a successful entrepreneur but also as a mentor, friend, athlete, and passionate advocate for local business and community engagement.
Larry Winans embodied the determination, resilience, and community spirit that helped shape the success of Jackass Brewing Company. Alongside his longtime friend and business partner, Skip Kratzer, he transformed a shared passion for homebrewing into one of the region’s most recognizable and beloved craft brewing brands.
Their dream became a reality when Jackass Brewing Company opened its Lewisburg location in early 2020. The launch came just days before the widespread COVID-19 shutdowns, presenting extraordinary challenges for the new business. Despite the uncertainty, Larry remained committed to his vision, supporting his employees, customers, and community with optimism and perseverance.
Under his leadership, the brewery not only survived but flourished. In 2023, Jackass Brewing Company expanded with the redevelopment of a historic warehouse property in Williamsport, reflecting Larry’s vision of creating welcoming spaces where people could gather, connect, and celebrate local culture.
Friends and colleagues say his influence could be seen in every aspect of the brewery—from its inviting atmosphere and creative offerings to its deep ties within the communities it served. Beyond business, Larry was admired for his generosity, humility, and ability to bring people together. Customers often became friends, and coworkers remember him as someone who genuinely cared about others.
His participation in the Ironman 70.3 event at the time of the medical emergency reflected another defining aspect of his character: his commitment to personal growth, discipline, and embracing life’s challenges with enthusiasm and determination.
Since news of his passing became public, an outpouring of tributes has emerged from brewery patrons, fellow business owners, athletes, and friends who were touched by his kindness, leadership, and unwavering support. Many have remembered Larry as someone who always had time for a conversation, offered encouragement when needed, and inspired others through both his actions and his example.
Larry Winans will be remembered as a devoted husband, family man, entrepreneur, athlete, and community leader whose influence extended far beyond the brewing industry. His legacy lives on through the brewery he helped build, the communities he strengthened, and the countless friendships and memories he created throughout his life.
As family, friends, and the entire Jackass Brewing Company team navigate this profound loss, they find comfort in the enduring impact of a man who dedicated himself to bringing people together and making a difference in the lives of others.
Funeral and memorial arrangements may be announced by the family at a later date.
May Larry Winans be remembered with gratitude, respect, and affection by all whose lives he touched, and may his memory continue to inspire the communities he so passionately served.