Stephen “Steve” Schmitt, 79, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Thursday, June 1, 2023. He was born December 16, 1943, in Two Rivers, the middle child of the dozen born to Bernard and Florentine (Colanchick) Schmitt. After graduating from Premontre High School in 1962, Steve served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Like many others who served in Vietnam, contact with Agent Orange caused many illnesses during his lifetime and ultimately led to his death. In spite of all of his health issues, Stephen’s motto remained, “Happy and Strong!”
Stephen and Janet “Jan” VanGrunsven were joined in holy matrimony on October 28, 1967, at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church. The couple was blessed with 55 years of marriage, two children and four grandchildren. Steve’s faith life was important to him, and he enjoyed being a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish and singing in their choir.
Steve worked as a lab technician at Kelley Photo and branched out as an entrepreneur with Schmitt Studio. A talented woodworker, Steve knew what a piece of wood wanted to be just by looking at it. He passed his talents on to his beloved grandchildren. And a passion that began by copying paintings while watching Bob Ross on the television, resulted in oil and watercolor paintings cherished by family.
Steve is survived by his wife Jan; their two children, Lisa Anderson (special friend, Lindsay Tafelski) and Rob Schmitt; four grandchildren, Dylan and Dawson Anderson, Jordan and Nathan Schmitt; sisters and brothers, Joan Meyer, Frances Kwitek, Susan Schultz, Rosalie (David) Thielman, Michael (Bonnie) Schmitt, Patricia (Dan) Schacht, Marie (Rob) Hayes, Leo (Terry) Schmitt, Fred Schmitt, Connie Schmitt, Dennis (Patti) Schmitt; a brother-in-law, Jeff VanGrunsven (special friend, Char King); many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers-in-law, Herb Meyer, Don Kwitek and Fred Schultz.
Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 10:50 a.m. Monday, June 5th at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 2771 Oakwood Drive, Green Bay. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. by Rev. Carl Schmitt. Military Honors will conclude the services. Entombment will be in Allouez Chapel Mausoleum. Proko-Wall Funeral Home is assisting the family and online condolences may be expressed at www.prokowall.com.
Steve’s family extends their sincere appreciation to everyone at Grancare for their wonderful care. You kindness will not be forgotten.
Jeane Smits is serving the family.