John A. Schmitz

Passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 7, 2009, age 63. Preceded in death by his parents Ambrose and Mary Schmitz. Loving and devoted dad of David and Jessica Schmitz. Brother of Ambrose “Bruce” (the late Mary Ellen) Schmitz. Dear cousin Christine (the late Ron) Jarecki, the late Delphine Rice and Joe Pollack. Uncle of Jeanne, Jimmy, Julie, Joanne and Jennifer. Former spouse of Patti Schmitz. Best friend of Kristy Frank. Also loved by other relatives and countless friends. Visitation at the Funeral Home Tuesday, January 13, 4:00 – 5:45 PM. Personal Eulogies at 6:00 PM. Visitation at ST. VINCENT PALLOTTI-EAST, 5424 West Bluemound Road, Wednesday, 10:00 – 11:00 AM. Funeral Mass 11:00 AM. Procession to Holy Cross. In lieu of flowers memorials to the family are appreciated. Schmitty was a Certified/Licensed Athletic Trainer, teacher of science, guidance, English, and most importantly sports medicine in the Milwaukee Public Schools (Solomon Juneau High School), Pius XI High School, and McPherson College. He coached baseball, softball, football, basketball and was proud to have many winning years. John loved his work, and had many hobbies, including sports, fishing, hunting, music (rock ‘n roll), electrical, electronic, mechanical and wood working; reading, history, movies, his dogs Cash and Xellos, and occasional expletives. John was a unique individual: professional, passionate, good humored, curmudgeonly, flexible, inflexible, intense, knowledgeable, risk-taking, honorable, slick, courageous, generous to a fault, short-tempered, kind, mentor, winner, superb father and friend.