Niagara Gazette
LEWISTON —
John J. Schmitz, of Lewiston, NY, passed away on Saturday, October 13, 2012, at his home, under the care of his family and Niagara Hospice.
He was born in Niagara Falls, NY, on March 4, 1929, the son of the late Hubert A. and Marie M. (McQuillan) Schmitz.
Mr. Schmitz served with the US Navy during the Korean War aboard the USS Tidewater.
After returning from the service he became a Plumber and Steamfitter with the former Labor Local #129, for over 40 years, before retiring in 1992.
He was actively involved at the Fatima Shrine and was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #247, the Niagara County and LaSalle Sportsman's Club. Mr. Schmitz enjoyed spending time with his family and was an avid golfer.
He was the husband of the late Betsy A. (Hodgkiss) Schmitz, who died in June of 2011, and the late Elvira (Finitz) Schmitz, who died in August of 1975.
Mr. Schmitz is survived by a son, John (Kendra) Schmitz of Ransomville; four daughters, Claudia (Mike) Schmitz-Lawson of Bakersfield, CA, and Dawn Schmitz, Alaina Allen and Denise (Dan) Robins, all of Niagara Falls, NY; two brothers, Paul and James Schmitz; one sister, MaryLou Britt. He is also survived by ten grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews. He was the brother of the late Hubert, Jerome and Joseph Schmitz.
The family will be present on Wednesday from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at RHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 901 Cayuga Street, LEWISTON, NY, where funeral services will be held on Thursday at 9:30 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM at St. Peter's Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston, NY, with the Rev. Michael P. Zuffoletto officiating. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made in his name to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094. Entombment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. Visit www.rhoneyfuneralhome.com for guest register.
