Michael John Schmelzer

Sergeant Major Michael John Schmelzer, United States Marine Corps (Ret.), age 71, passed peacefully in his home in Universal City, TX, surrounded by loved ones, on Saturday, August 10, 2024. Michael was born on August 7, 1953, in Madison, WI, the son of David and Mary (Dederich) Schmelzer. He attended West High School in Madison, WI, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in October 1970. Michael met and married Katherine Alice Jordan (Bailey), the mother of his five children, at his first duty station in Philadelphia, PA.

Michael's military occupational specialty was Supply and Logistics, and he excelled at dozens of duty assignments worldwide. He also had several assignments in Fleet supporting billets, serving on both Recruiting and Drill Instructor duties. An exemplary Marine, Michael climbed the enlisted ladder, ultimately earning the rank of Sergeant Major in less than 20 years. He served as Battalion Sergeant Major in two combat tours (2d Radio Battalion, 2d SRI Group, II MEF). After more than 24 years of honorable service, he retired as Sergeant Major of the 8th Marine Corps Recruiting District in San Antonio, TX, in 1995.

Michael continued his career in San Antonio with the US Postal Service, ultimately retiring for a second time in 2017.

Michael's service extended beyond his military and postal careers. He was a proud Marine, American, and patriot, and a lifetime member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He actively supported numerous Veteran-focused charities, demonstrating his commitment to his fellow servicemen and women.

Michael was not only a dedicated Marine but also a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Deborah Steele; his children, Timothy Schmelzer, Shawn (Sylvia) Schmelzer, and Jessica (Mark) Schultze; his brother Gary (Constance) Schmelzer; his grandchildren, Michael, Cameron, Christian, John Cole, and Caleb; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Michael is preceded in death by his father, David J. Schmelzer; his mother, Mary M. Schmelzer; his sons, Kevin Schmelzer and Keith Schmelzer; his sister, Anna Fontana Schmelzer; and his brother, John D. Schmelzer.

The funeral arrangements for Michael are as follows: a viewing to honor his life will be held at Colonial Funeral Home, 625 Kitty Hawk Road, Universal City, TX, on Sunday, August 25, 2024, from 6:30-8:00pm. The funeral service will commence at Colonial Funeral Home on Monday, August 26, 2024, at 11:00am. Following the funeral, there will be a procession to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX, for a service with military honors at 1:15pm. Immediately after the services, “as it should be,” a Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion, Post 667, 504 Bowie Drive, Universal City, TX. “Hello!”.

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