Robert E. Schmitz

Robert E. Schmitz, age 77, of rural Bloomington, passed away peacefully from a long battle with cancer on Thursday, August 6, 2009, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home in Lancaster surrounded by his family. He was born on March 23, 1932, the son of Ernest and LaVon (Kitto) Schmitz. Robert was united in marriage to Leila Laufenberg on February 6, 1952 at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster. Together they farmed in both Potosi and Beetown Townships. He also worked at John Deere in Dubuque for 10 years and started his own sanitation business, Schmitz Sanitary Service in 1976 before retiring in 1994 and selling the business to his son, Tim, who still operates the business today. Robert also did various other jobs.

Robert was an avid truck and tractor puller and enjoyed working and tinkering with anything mechanical. He especially enjoyed his family and his special kitty, Fluffy.

Robert is survived by his wife of 57 years, Leila; nine children: Bonnie (Fred) Maughan, Lancaster, Larry (Linda) Schmitz, Stitzer, Diane (Doug) Haufler, Mount Hope, Betty (Darwin) Pierce, Potosi, Ron (Nancy) Schmitz, Bloomington, Jim (Shelly) Schmitz, Lancaster, Barb (Lynn) Millard, Lancaster, Tim (Charlene) Schmitz, Bloomington and Teresa (Greg) Fry, Mesa, AZ; a son-in-law, Tony Brendemuehl; 21 grandchildren; 2 step-grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 12 step-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved daughter, Mary Jane Brendemuehl and a brother, John.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2009 at Schwartz Funeral Home, Lancaster due to construction at St. Clement Church, with Father William Seipp officiating. Burial was in Hurricane Cemetery, South Lancaster Township.