Elmer "Ecky" J. Schmitz, age 96, a Manitowoc resident, passed away Tuesday, March 12, 2024 in Manitowoc.

He was born August 26, 1927 in Manitowoc Rapids, son of the late John and Clara (Massman) Schmitz. He attended Lincoln High School, graduating with the class of 1946. He served in the United States Army in the Pacific Theater, receiving his honorable discharge with the rank of Corporal. Elmer married the former Audrey Lenz on September 28, 1957. She preceded him in death on August 30, 2022 after 64 years of marriage. Elmer was employed at Mirro for 16 years, Lincoln High School for 16 years, then at Franklin Elementary School for nine years, retiring in 1989 as head custodian. He was a charter and life member of AMVETS Post 99 of Manitowoc. Elmer enjoyed deer hunting, hunting with his beagles, and fishing, especially for Musky and panfish. He also enjoyed traveling, working in the yard, watching westerns, and bowling in his younger years. Above all, he loved spending time with his family.

Elmer is survived by two daughters: Robin (Dan) Kohlman and Renee (Mike) Kautzer; one daughter-in-law: JoLynn Schmitz; five grandchildren: Christopher Kohlman, Kimberly (Andrew) Magyar, Kate Kohlman (Cory Rushford), Hunter Schmitz, and Rikki Schmitz; and three great-grandsons: Roman, Arwin, and Viggo Magyar. He is further survived by a son and his family as well as other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife: Audrey Schmitz; his son: Randall J. Schmitz; his parents: John and Clara Schmitz; father-in-law and mother-in-law: Edward and Marion Lenz; five sisters and four brothers-in-law.

In respect with the family's wishes, private memorial services were held at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home with Deacon Alan Boeldt officiating. Military honors were accorded by AMVETS Post 99 of Manitowoc. Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory with burial of Elmer's cremated remains at Calvary Cemetery.  Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Laurel Grove Assisted Living for the loving care and compassion they had shown to Elmer and his family.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the Schmitz family with funeral arrangements.