James Pius Schmalz

James Pius Schmalz's life came to an unexpected end Monday morning, May 21, 2018, at the age of 29.

James is survived by his wife, Isabella; son, William; parents, Cathy Lee (Bob) Repnak and George (Misuk) Schmalz; sister, Leslie (Eric) Fornshell; half-siblings, Jonah and Alivia Schmalz; grandparents, Pius and Amy Schmalz; nieces, Cecilia, Anabel and Adaline Fornshell; and nephew, Caleb Fornshell; aunts and uncles, Arlen (Sandy) Schmalz, Kathy (Martin) Henderson, Marchell (Charles) Mahoney, Heidi Schmalz, Dave (Carrie) Lee and Barb Robertus. He was preceded in death by grandparents, George and Jane Lee; and uncles, Tim Schmalz, and George and Thomas Lee.

James was born in Billings to Cathy (Lee Repnak) and George Schmalz. He graduated from Central High School in 2006. He married Isabella King in 2015. Their marriage was busy. In 2016, they welcomed their son, William, into their union. 2016 was also spent building a beautiful new home for the growing family, which they moved into in June of 2017. After Will's birth, James put his management skills to use and joined his wife in the management of a local restaurant.

James was a loving and devoted father. He could often be found on the floor playing various games with his son. Bedtime was a special father-son time, as they had an intricate routine that involved carefully tucked blankets, special stuffed animal friends, favorite books and quiet time together.

James had a passion for classic cars. He was in the midst of rebuilding a 1972 Buick Skylark. While quiet, James had a quick and satirical sense of humor. He enjoyed cooking and creating his own take on dishes for his family. James appreciated simple things, enjoying walks and evening drives with his wife and son. He enjoyed playing video games and cards, and was quick to remind his wife that he had beat her in four moves in a game of chess.

James was a kind, loving person. A terrific son whose gentle and kind nature will be greatly missed by his parents and all who knew him. A loving brother, James looked up to and admired his sister Leslie and brother-in-law, Eric. His time spent with his nieces, nephews, and young brother and sister was treasured.

A Vigil and Mass will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 24, at St. Bernard's Parish, 226 Wicks Lane, with a viewing preceding at 6 p.m. A celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 26, at Shiloh United Methodist Church, 1810 Shiloh Road, with a reception to follow. Committal service to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Billings NAMI/ National Alliance on Mental Illness; info@namibillings.org, or The William Schmalz Education Benefit Fund at Billings Valley Credit Union.