Obituary of William B. Schmitz

“Bill”

At the age of 62, Bill had just left his mother, Betty’s wake service when he arrived home to retire for the night.  He had a fulfilling day of sharing memories with many of his family and friends.  Many stories were told, some laughs and some tears were shared, but he was comforted with being surrounded by all of his family and friends.  Bill sat down, getting ready for bed, closed his eyes, and woke up in the presence of his parents, family and his Lord.  Bill had many complications that compromised his health, but none of us expected him to go home on Tuesday.

Bill was a graduate of Joliet Catholic High School, Class of 1974, and was the former co-owner and operator of Schmitz Brothers Plumbing.  He was a craftsman who loved his job, and although it was work, it was a family owned labor or love.

Bill lived life “large,” but his children and grandchildren were the center of his universe.  Bill loved spending time on the river, but not many people on the river knew him as Bill.  His river name was “Schmitty,” and he wore it proudly.  There was an establishment, or watering hole known as “Just One More” where everyone knew Schmitty’s name.

We would be remiss if we didn’t say on behalf of Bill to his grandchildren, “Luv, Luv and More.”  That was how he felt about his family and friends, but the grandchildren were the cherry on the sundae.

He is preceded in death by his father, William J. Schmitz (2016); his mother, Elizabeth “Betty” (nee Schaar) Schmitz (May 4, 2018); his in-laws, Kenneth Wruk (2014) and Gloria (nee Rocks) Wruk (2013); one brother and one sister, in infancy; and his goddaughter and beloved niece, Theresa Lang (2011).

Survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Vicki A. Schmitz of Joliet; one son, William K. (Jennifer) Schmitz of Minooka; one daughter, Amanda (Jonathan) Casford of Joliet; three grandchildren, Cassidy Grace Schmitz, Madison Gloria and Megan Marie Casford; one brother, Michael (Lynne) Schmitz of Joliet; three sisters, Sharon (Paul) Frausto of Joliet, Debbie (Jerry) Mosher of Montgomery, and Kathleen Schmitz of Joliet; two brothers-in-law, Kenneth (Nancy) Wruk of Joliet, and Martin (Joan) Wruk of Crest Hill; three sisters-in-law, Donna Joutras of Joliet, Neda (Daniel) Zelehovitis of Joliet, and Kristine Walker of Oswego; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends who he dearly loved.

Funeral services for William B. “Bill” Schmitz will be held Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at 9:15 a.m., from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Roads, Joliet, to the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 a.m.  As it was Bill’s wish, cremation rites will be accorded following his visitation.  In lieu of flowers, memorials to his grandchildren’s education fund, made out to the Schmitz family, would be appreciated.  “Luv, Luv and More…”  Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery.  Visitation will be held Monday, from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the funeral home.  For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com