Louis Earl Schmitz

Louis Earl Schmitz passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on January 11, 2026. He was born on December 10, 1949, to Louis Ferdinand and Elizabeth Lee Schmitz in Atascadero, California. He is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Kathy Jo Schmitz; his daughter, Jennifer Lee Davis of Modesto; his son, Louis Henry Schmitz of Paso Robles; his granddaughter, Catherine Elizabeth Maxine Davis; his grandson, Louis David Schmitz; and his loyal Beagle, Bouncer. He is also survived by his sisters, Frances Edwards of San Luis Obispo and Margaret Gates of Paso Robles; his aunt, Lynn Schmitz of San Miguel; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, in laws, extended family members, and friends.

Earl grew up in Paso Robles and graduated from Paso Robles High School in 1969. During his school years, he played football and was active in the Future Farmers of America (FFA). He earned recognition from the American Hereford Association after his steers, heifers, and bulls won multiple awards, including FFA Reserve Champion at the California Mid State Fair—early signs of the lifelong connection he would maintain with agriculture and the local community.

He spent many years working on farming and cattle ranches throughout the area before beginning his long career with the City of Paso Robles. Earl ultimately retired from the City’s Water Department in the late 1990s. After retirement, he founded a backflow certification company with his son, which continues to operate today. Many will remember Earl as the man seen all over town perched on his metal egg crate basket, testing and repairing backflow devices. He dedicated his working life to drinking water—its procurement, production, and protection—and took great pride in that responsibility.

Earl loved to talk with people. If you had a moment to spare—whether in person or on the phone—he always had a story or two to share, often about the “good old days” in and around Paso Robles, cattle ranching, farming, or the intricacies of backflow devices. His stories were part of his charm and a reflection of a life deeply rooted in place and community.

In 1974, Earl met the love of his life, Kathy Jo, daughter of Alfred Henry and Oleta Maxine Johnson, while working alongside his soon to be brother in law in the Whitley Gardens area. They married soon after and later purchased property on Hog Canyon Road in San Miguel—an area not yet popular at the time—where they built their home and raised their family. Earl spent many years serving on the Pleasant Valley School Board and as the Swine and Poultry leader for the Estrella 4 H, giving generously of his time to support local youth.

Earl lived a full and meaningful life, grounded in family, hard work, and the joy of sharing stories. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and a true friend to many. He will be remembered for his steady compassion, generosity, dry sense of humor, sound advice, unmistakable belly laugh, and the deep love and kindness he extended to all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family he cherished so deeply.

A Viewing will be held at Kuehl Nicolay Funeral Home, 1703 Spring Street, Paso Robles, on February 5, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

A Graveside Service will take place at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, 7000 Estrella Road, San Miguel, on February 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM.

A Reception will follow at 6286 Hog Canyon Road, San Miguel, CA 93451.

Please let us know if you can join us for a meal, remembrance, and storytelling to honor the life of Louis Earl Schmitz by contacting Henry Schmitz at 805 710 3266 or [email protected] Your presence would mean so much.