Marcos James Schmitz, age 26, passed away on September 24, 2026. He was born on May 3, 2000, in Guatemala. Marcos was a graduate of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School and Bishop Chatard High School. Marcos was proud of his roots and the community that helped shape him. During his years at Bishop Chatard, he played soccer, enjoyed participating in stage crew, and spending time with his friends.
Marcos was a kind and gentle soul and enjoyed the little and simple things in life. Whether gathered around the tv playing video games or sharing board and card games at home, he cherished time spent with family and friends. Just like the comic book stories he loved to read, or watch as they became movies, Marcos was a dreamer with a big imagination that matched his creativity and inquisitive mind.
He enjoyed being in nature and the peacefulness of hiking and fishing, especially when joined by his dog. He loved cats and dogs and was often found with one snuggled up at his side. He had the biggest smile and the biggest heart and was always happy to celebrate others and share in their joy.
Marcos is survived by his devoted parents, Duane & Lenore (Gooden) Schmitz; loving siblings, Nicklaus Lang, Cristian Schmitz, Marta Schmitz (fiancé Rylan Elliott), Sofia Schmitz & Chloe Schmitz; beloved grandmothers, Bernadette Schmitz and Ruth Gooden; dear God parents, Jackie Shaver and Fr. Jeff Godecker; a host of grateful aunts, uncles, cousins and friends and his dog MoMo.
Marcos was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Marvin Schmitz and Henry Gooden.
Memorial visitation for Marcos will be from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Wednesday, September 30th at Leppert Mortuary Nora Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 1st at 10:00 AM at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested in Marcos’ name to Friends of Honduran Children Indiana (https://forms.donorsnap.com/Form/Index/99882e31-a56a-486e-aac9-35c6ed52849f).
Online condolences available at www.leppertmortuary.com.
