Jerry H. Schmitz

Jerry “Chewy” H. Schmitz, age 82, of Fort Recovery, passed away at his home on Sunday, January 25, 2026, with his family at his side.

He was born on March 11, 1943, in Coldwater, to the late Charles “Charlie” and Armella “Susie” (Sandrell) Schmitz.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his siblings, Fred Schmitz and Mary Ann (Joe) Mescher; and in-laws Don (Mary Alice) Bruns, and Dale (Marilyn) Bruns.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Marlene Elizabeth (Bruns) Schmitz, whom he married on September 21, 1963 at Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church; his children, Dave (Darlene) Schmitz of Coldwater, Randy (Kathy) Schmitz of Versailles, Dan (Marcia) Schmitz of Fort Recovery, Rick (Tracy) Schmitz of Maria Stein, and Deb (Tony) Kaup of Coldwater; his 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren; his brother, Ronnie (Marlene) Schmitz of Miamisburg; his sister-in-law, Mary Schmitz of Fort Recovery; and his in-laws, Bud (Mary) Granger of Fort Recovery, and John (Carol) Ranly of Fort Recovery.

Jerry was a 1961 graduate of Fort Recovery High School. He built his career as a skilled car mechanic and later served as parts manager for Ron Garrett Chevrolet in Fort Recovery. Jerry was a member of the Coldwater Eagles, the Fort Recovery Ambassadors, and the Catholic Order of Foresters at St. Anthony.

Above all, Jerry cherished his family and the time they spent together. He enjoyed taking leisurely drives and, before its closure, was a familiar face at Meinerding’s, where he often met friends for breakfast. Jerry also loved trips to Las Vegas, where he enjoyed testing his luck and soaking in the experience.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Mary Help of Christians, with Father Ethan Moore celebrating. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Guests may visit with Jerry’s family from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 29, 2026, and again on Friday from 9:00 – 10:00 AM at Brockman Boeckman Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to EverHeart Hospice.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.brockmanboeckmanfh.com.