TROY GROVE – Robert J. Schmitz, 90, of Troy Grove, passed away unexpectedly on April 25. 2023 in his home.

A Memorial Mass will be recited on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Mendota. Rev. Jeff Windy will officiate. Burial of ashes will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. Cremation rites have been accorded. Wasmer Funeral Home is privileged to assist the family.

Bob was born March 9, 1933, in LaSalle to John and Norine (Elsesser) Schmitz. He graduated from LaMoille High School in 1951. He married Mary Ellen Stremlau, who preceded him in death in 1964. Bob then married Kathryn E. Jauch McLaughlin on Feb. 9, 1974. She passed on Feb. 19, 2013.

Bob will be forever missed by his son Brian Schmitz of Yulee, Fla.; daughter JoAnn Schmitz of Albuquerque, N.M.; three grandchildren, Missy (Jeremy) Actis of Magnolia, Matthew (Sarah Tucker) McLaughlin of Granville and Zavier Schmitz of Albuquerque, N.M.; four great-grandchildren, Braiden, Karson, Madison and Rilyn Actis; sister-in-law Carla Schmitz of Mendota; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, both wives, brother Paul "Deke" Schmitz and sister Ruth Graham Klopfenstein.

Robert proudly served in the U.S. Army. He was a devout Catholic, belonging to St. Valentine's. Bob was a world traveler, visiting nearly all the 50 states, and traversing six continents. In his youth, Bob loved to play sports, and later he loved watching sports, particularly his favorite teams, the Cubs and Notre Dame. Bob was a joy to be around. He was a caring, generous loving soul who always had a positive outlook on life.

Memorials may be directed to the donor's choice. Condolences may be left at wasmerfuneralhome.com.