Michael Anthony Schmitz

Michael Anthony Schmitz was born June 13, 1960 to parents Anthony and Patricia Schmitz in Joliet, IL. One of his early loves was that of cars, where he came to be familiar with mechanics and solving problems during this time. He quickly achieved an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician that he used throughout his career. Mike carried these skills throughout his life, selflessly helping others with his talents, and was thought of by his family to have a brilliant mind along these lines all the way to the end.

He served in the United States Air Force from 1982 to 1985, and in the reserves for the following three years. Mike served his country honorably and was proud of his service to the United States. After this service he was focused on faith, family, and his country and was loved by those around him. He was a member of St. Thomas Catholic church and held a strong conviction of his faith in Jesus Christ.

Mike loved his family, especially his son Jeremy, in his life after his service. He moved to Billings, MT in 2000 and was a staple at family events year-after-year. He had many memories over the years with his son, siblings, nephews, and nieces with a calm demeanor, never complaining, and a quick joke that would delight those around him. He enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs, Bears, and playing cards games. He liked photography and was never found without a cup of coffee in hand. Mike appreciated capturing these moments with his family and loved ones over the years. He was very sentimental and kept every card sent to him over the years, these gestures always meant so much to him. 

Our dear Mike was called home to the Lord on 2/4/25 a brief battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Patricia, brothers Tony, Tim and John, brother-in-law Dennis Murphy, niece Sarah Murphy. He is survived by brothers Tom Schmitz, Dennis (Diane) Schmitz, and sisters Sr. Raphael (Mary Schmitz), Patricia (Jeffrey) Lair and Cathy Murphy, as well as many loving nieces and nephews, and grand nieces, and nephews.

Mike was carefully cared for by Laurel Health and Rehab and the Compassus Hospice team during his last days. Services will be at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary on February 24th, 2025, with visitation from 1:00 to 3:00pm and a Memorial service beginning at 3:00 p.m. After the memorial Mike will be cremated and his remains will be shipped to Joliet, IL. Pending services and burial will be in Joliet and will be announced later.