I had the pleasure to be in his class in 1975. Must say many of us high school girls had a crush on him. Being a cheer leader had time to see him coach in action and knew how much his team respected him. Sorry for your loss. Debbie Gross-Longo.

Coach Schmitz was the most "POWERFUL" individual I met in my high school years. I learned so much for him in such a short time. He taught us to never settle for being good or second best, but to strive for greatness which can only be acheived by giving 110% of ourselves to the task at hand. He taught us to be winners and to believe in ourselves as individuals and as a team. He taught us to reach deep down inside ourselves when we were tired and out of breath, especially in the 4th qtr, and find our inner strength to over come any and all odds.  He taught us to be mentally strong as young men. I believe my success in both my personal and professional life is partly as result of Mike's leadership and examples he set while teaching at Commack South. Coach Schmitz impacted so many young people over his career as a teacher and basketball coach. I'll miss him, but feel that he's still is with us because a part of him lives within us all!

The conversations I had with Coach while at Dowling were always full of laughs and great stories.  His lively and friendly personality will surely be missed by many.  

-Brian S.

Mike was my friend and colleague at CMS for 18 years.  I will always remember his big smile, contagious laugh, and good advice.  His door was always open and so many of us used it to talk to Mike.He was a people person and chose the perfect profession because he was a great counselor for all the kids and teachers too.  I will miss my buddy so much.  COndolences to his wonderful family such a tribute to a great guy!!

Our daughter, Ryann grew up with Mike's daughter Andrea.  She spent many wonderful times with her family. We are so sorry to learn of her Dad's passing. We respected the man he was as reflected by his fine family.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all.

Shelly,
I am so sorry for your loss - My sympathy and prayers to you and your family
Ursie

So sorry to hear this news about Coach. He taught me so many important lessons about life when I was a young kid.  I played Freshman ball at Commack South for him in 1971-72. Although I only saw "Mike" a few times post leaving high school, I have thought and spoken of him often.  He helped me grow up and taught me important lesson early in my life about life - being goal oriented, working hard, doing more than you think you can do.  He is and was a major motivator to me.  I am so sorry for your loss.  I hope you will be comforted by the knowledge that many lives were positively effected by him. I will never forget what he meant to me. May Coach rest in peace. Bob Mallow, Overland Park, Kansas

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

My prayers go out to the family. I grew up with Mike on Byrd Ct in Kings Park. No computers or video games, we went out and  played ball from sun up  to dusk, and I have such great memories. A great friend, a phenominal athlete, and a good man will be missed.

My sincerest condolences to the family. It was in 2003 when you all came by my home for a cocktail party...what laughs we all had; Ron, Ursula, Ted...Ms Bertolotti...gosh you were one of the most popular teachers at South..Rest in peace; you have made a large impact on us all. Kathy Caton Class of 1975 CHSS

"Mike was a down-to-earth, up-front, honest man, knowledgeable about the sports he coached, fond of those who played for him, and passionate about what he did. I am sure he will be missed by his students, his players, his coworkers and certainly by this former sportswriter who used to cover his teams. Condolences and may God bless his family."

Schmitty, You were there for us with coach Manfre and coach Smith in the discovery program at South. You reached out to me when I needed a friend. I`ve never forgotten that. you`ve been there for many on the court and off and we were lucky to have someone like you. Your strenghth, warmth, and personality will never be forgotten Rest easy my friend Love, Jim Sullivan `78

My Prayers go out to the family. A great team mate (The Wizards)and a good friend. Dan Sullivan

Uncle Mike, my words will never be able to show my appreciation and love towards you. You believed in me and supported me through everything I did. I love you and I know you'll be watching over me while I'm in school.

To Michael's Family,
 My thoughts and prays are with you and your family in your time of grief. My deepest sympathy.

Condolences to the family of Mikw Schmitz. Great guy, great coach and teacher. -Ray McCann and family Gilbert, AZ)

Shelly, our thoughts and prays go out to you and the family at this difficult time. Michael was an extraordinary man, I will miss him and hold dear the memories we shared through the years. Love Kathy and Phil

Shelley, I am so very sad for you and your family.  Kindly accept my sincere condolences.  Kathy Roselli McCready

Just heard the news....I am devastated....this man was the biggest motivator in my entire life...the world lost a large personality and I've lost a piece of my heart.....rest in peace, Coach.....to the family, I am so sorry for your loss....I hope you will be comforted by the knowledge that this man greatly influenced many, many lives....and perhaps none more than my own.....I was terrible at staying in touch over the years, but will never forget what he meant to my life.....I coached HS basketball for 28 years, and tried to be like him every single day.  It would be an honor to be able to share some of the great stories and memories he gave me as a coach, motivator and dear friend....I hope someday to be able to do that.....he will NEVER be forgotten!         Al Braithwaite - CHSS, Class of '75

To Mike's family:
It was my pleasure and privilege to know Mike for the short time I did. While I didn't know him well you could tell he was a decent and good man. On behalf of my family I want to extend our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences.
John DiRico & Family
Head Men's Soccer Coach
Dowling College

OBITUARY

Michael Schmitz

January 13, 1949 – July 5, 2012

O.B. Davis Funeral Homes - Miller Place

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