Gerhard “Smitty” Alphonse Schmitz, Jr., 84, Westphalia, passed away Dec. 20, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born Sept. 7, 1941, to the late Gerhard M. and Rose Marie (Hagenhoff) Schmitz in Westphalia.
He was united in marriage to Linda Kay Koenig July 31, 1965.
Gerhard, affectionately known as “Smitty,” was a hardworking and dedicated man throughout his life. He spent his career as a route salesman in the beverage industry, retiring after 26 years with Budweiser/N.H. Scheppers, and later working 11 years with Backer’s Potato Chips Company.
Gerhard was a faithful member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Westphalia and was deeply involved in his community. He was a proud Knight of Columbus, holding 3rd and 4th Degree membership in the Monsignor Ralph Kutz Assembly and also a member of the Westphalia Lions Club.
He enjoyed bowling, fishing, golfing, traveling, and most of all spending time with his family.
Gerhard was preceded in death by parents, Gerhard and Rose; sister, Edna; brother, Jerome; and granddaughter, Victoria Schmitz.
He is survived by loving wife, Linda Kay of Westphalia; children, Edna Webster and husband James, Patrick Schmitz and wife LeAnn, Larry Schmitz and wife Donna, Stephanie VanHooser and husband Mike and Aaron Schmitz and wife Marcy; along with multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 9 until 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 27, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Westphalia, with Rev. Dylan Shrader officiating. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Westphalia.
Memorial contributions suggested to St. Jude’s Hospital.
Arrangements entrusted to Hilke-Millard Funeral Home in Westphalia.
Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com
