William E Schmitz Obituary

On 21 February 2022, William (Bill) E. Schmitz died unexpectedly in his Las Vegas home from heart problems. He was 70 years old.

Bill is survived by his mother living in Racine, Wisconsin where he was born and raised; his 4 children (Sarah (married to James), Melissa (married to Michael), Josh (married to April) & Tyler) and their families including 6 grandchildren ranging in ages from 2 months to 11 years old; and his brother Jim.

Bill was born in Wisconsin and graduated from Horlick High School in Racine in 1970. From graduation he went on to serve in the military during the Vietnam war for 2 years – he was a radio operator stationed in Europe. He went on to start a family and began his lifelong career as an ironworker, belonging to local 8 for 22 years and finishing out his career in local 433 until he retired several years ago.

Bill loved to sing, play music, and compose his own songs about love, faith, justice, and life’s twists & turns. He also loved learning languages, especially French, and contributing to local charities, like the Las Vegas Rescue Mission. He’s spent the last several years living with his youngest son, Tyler, with whom he shared many cherished moments of life & adventure. One of his favorite things to do in retirement was spending time with his 6 grandchildren. The joy on his face was evident to everyone around as he knelt and played on their level, discussed the philosophical musings of toddlerhood, or embarked on travels around the globe with them.

A private memorial service for Bill was held on 26 February 2022 with close friends and family.