Gilbert Schmitz

Gilbert V. Schmitz, age 100, of Lancaster, passed away on Tuesday, January 5, 2016, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, rural Lancaster. He was born on September 1, 1915, the son of William and Anna (Schaefer) Schmitz. Gilbert graduated from Tennyson High School and furthered his education at Loras College in Dubuque, IA. On May 26, 1941, he was united in marriage to Martina A. Reding at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville. Together they farmed in Waterloo Township. Gilbert was also employed at Walsh's Store, Farley and Letcher, and later at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works. He was a member of St. Clement Catholic Church. Gilbert enjoyed scroll woodworking and gave many pieces to his family and friends.

Survivors include his loving wife, Martina Schmitz; their children: Catherine (Eugene) Konrardy; William (Judy Elskamp) Schmitz; Esther (Dennis) Crapp; Paul (Karen) Schmitz; Robert (Machele) Schmitz; Martina (Ken Kirschbaum) Shaw; 14 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; two great-great granddaughters.

Gilbert was preceded in death by an infant son, Vincent; a daughter-in-law, Marie Schmitz; and many brothers and sisters.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, January 7, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church with Rev. John Sasse officiating. Burial was in St. Andrew Cemetery, Tennyson. Family and friends called on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until time of services at the church. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Gilbert V. Schmitz Memorial Fund has been established. Schwartz Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Lancaster is assisting the family.