Michael J. Schmitz

Michael James Mickey Schmitz, 89, of Rochester, MN, passed away peacefully February 28, 2017, surrounded by family. Born in 1927 in Dodgeville, WI, to Michael and Marguerite (Ryan) Schmitz, he graduated from Soldiers Grove High School and then enlisted in the Navy. Sixty-five years ago, he married the love of his life, June Wilberding, atSt. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Cuba City, WI. An active member of St. Rose Parish for more than 40 years, he served on both the Parish Council and School Board, was a Eucharistic Minister, and usher. He also served on the St. Clara Academy Advisory Board, Cuba City Public Library board, and was a member of the Catholic Knights for 50 years. In his early years, he worked for Orwell Pest Control, later he owned and operated Mission Orange Soda. He then worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for 29 years before retiring. Michael is survived by his wife June, his children: Sister Beth, OSF, Milwaukee, WI; Chris (Mary Jean), Rochester, MN; Tim (Michelle), Itasca, IL; and Amy (Harry), Wauwatosa, WI; and his siblings Margaret Spillane, Shullsburg, WI; and William Schmitz of Northbrook, IL. He adored (and bragged about) his four grandchildren: Michael, Nicholas, Claire, and Sophia. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Kenneth and Robert Schmitz. He was an avid Cuba City Cuban basketball fan and never missed watching a Packer game. He and June spent their retirement traveling and wintering in Florida. They moved from Cuba City, WI to Rochester, MN 15 years ago. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday March 3, 2017 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes with a visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. On Saturday, March 4, 2017 there will be a visitation at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Cuba City, WI from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Burial will be at St. Rose Catholic Cemetery immediately following. To leave a special memory please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com Arrangements are being handled by Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600