Bernard D. Schmitz

passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2015.

A patriarch and family man, Bernie had been

active in the Catholic Church, township politics and

had a robust career with Michigan Bell Telephone.

Bernie moved to the Traverse City area from

Plymouth, Michigan in 1974, and retired as District

Manager of Engineering in 1982. Bernie loved to fi sh,

play cards, travel, and spend time with his family. He

will be remembered by his friends and family for his

support, generosity, wisdom and love of life.

Bernie recently celebrated 68 years of

marriage to the love of his life, Yvonne (Harms)

Schmitz. In addition to his wife, Bernie is survived by Debra (Pat) Lynch and

Dawn (Jed) Hemming of Traverse City, Donna Fiebig of Saginaw, David (Jackie)

Schmitz of Middleville, Dean (Barb) Schmitz of N. Albany, Oregon, Denise Wulf

of Fulsom, California, son-in-law, Dan Robinson of Spring Lake, Michigan, his

sister, Maryanne Hudson of Bradenton, Florida and brother, Murl Schmitz of

Milwaukee, Wisconsin and 16 grandchildren, seven great grandchildren. Bernie

was predeceased by daughter, Diane Robinson, granddaughter, Lauren Hemming

and sister, Lorraine Gutzel.

Visitation will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Elk Rapids, Thursday,

February 12, at 5 p.m., with vigil following at 7 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held

Friday, February 13, at 11 a.m., at the church. A luncheon will follow. Memorials

may be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Memorials may be directed to

Sacred Heart Catholic Church.