William John Schmalzer's Obituary
Mr. William John Schmalzer, age 88, passed away Friday, September 2, 2016 after a courageous fight with cancer at his home. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on January 2, 1928 to Fred and Anna (Semon) Schmalzer. Bill was a veteran of the United States Army. He had been employed by MichCon for over 30 years before his retirement in 1988. Bill was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church and the Lakeside Veterans Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and polka music. On October 23, 1954, Bill married the former Nancy L. Smith and she survives him along with four children, Linda McKendry of Norton Shores, Ruthan (Gil) Schmitt of Phoenix, AZ, Fred Schmalzer of Apopka, FL and Joan (Larry) Cioffi of Naperville, IL; 11 grandchildren, Heather (Doug) Lee, Shannon (Les) Figgins, Sean (Melanie) McKendry, Andrew Schmitt, Reid Schmitt, Tate Schmitt, Mitchell Schmalzer, Hilliary Schmalzer, Laura Cioffi, Julie (Zach) Strong, and Michael Cioffi; five great-grandchildren, Austin, Brayden, Caitlynn, McKenzie and Lennon; one sister, Wilma (Jim) Morton and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law, John McKendry, Jr. A MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will be celebrated 11:00 AM Tuesday, September 6, 2016 at St. Francis de Sales – Marian Chapel with Rev. Fr. Donald E. Weber presiding. VISITATION will be one hour prior to his service. Interment will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery. MEMORIALS in honor of Bill may be made to Harbor Hospice of the St. Francis Journey of Faith Fund. Arrangements by The Walburn Chapel, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., 231-759-8565.
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