Louis E. Schmitz, 85

Louis Edward Schmitz, "Louie," age 85, of Farmington, was born Aug. 21, 1926, in Red Lake Falls, Minn., son of John and Anna Schmitz. Louie passed away peacefully in his home on Dec. 30 due to complications from cancer.

Louie served his country in the Navy during WWII. He retired from Dakota Electric in 1989 after 34 years of service and was very active in community organizations such as sports and other charitable activities.

His honors and awards include: Don Clark Memorial Hockey Award (2008), Women's Hockey Association Hall of Fame (2005), Farmington High School Hall of Fame (1992), Farmington Hometown Honoree (2005), Development of Activities for the Youth of Farmington Recognition (1989), Certificate of Appreciation for Valuable Contributions to Farmington Football (2009), Amateur Hockey Association of the U.S. Award for the Advancement of the Youth Hockey Program (1962), Excellence Award for Contributions to the Youth Athletic Programs in Farmington (2008), WCCO Good Neighbor Award, Outstanding Service Award ('82-'83), Lifetime VFW Member, Outstanding Citizen of the Year ('89), and the Farmington Ice Arena was dedicated and named after him (Schmitz-Maki Arena - 2005.)

He was preceded in death by his siblings Elizabeth (Leonard) Guerard, Joe (Marlys), Sylvester (Helen), Vincent, Leonard, John, Margaret (Ed) Cuno, Clarice (Don) Knott, David Schmitz, and brother-in-law Maurice Desotell.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Jean; nine children, Sandy (Dan) Pudil, Randy (Nancy), Billy (Sue), Ricky (Chad), Shelly, Tommy (Melissa), Bobby (Michelle), Jody (Bob) Slette, and Lisa Guse; 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; siblings Lucille Desotell, Marilyn Newton, and Tony (Crystal) Schmitz, many nieces and nephews and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 22120 Denmark Ave., Farmington, with visitation from 3-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6, and 1 hour prior to Mass, all at church. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred. Interment will follow at the St. Michael's Church Cemetery.

Your thoughtfulness and support are sincerely appreciated at this time. The Schmitz Family.

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