Henry "Hank" Schmitt

Henry (Hank) Jude Schmitt, a man of quiet strength, uncanny wit, and unwavering devotion to family, was welcomed into the Lord’s arms on April 5, 2024, in De Pere, Wisconsin, at the age of 74. Born on August 9, 1949, to Francis and Cleo (Weber) Schmitt, Henry's life was a testament to the values of love, humor, and education.

In the summer of 1971, Henry exchanged vows with the love of his life, Joann (Hansen) Schmitt, embarking on a journey that spanned over five decades. Their union was (and continues to be) one of which everyone dreams, with unspoken understandings, unwavering devotion, and enduring love as they navigated life's joys and challenges side by side. They were blessed with four sons: Mark (Catie), Patrick, Nicholas (Bridget), and Bryan (Katherine), who were the pride and joy of Henry's life. The births of his three grandchildren: Finnegan Jude (Mark), August Cole (Nicholas), and Aurora Lucia (Bryan), and anticipation of future grandchildren, brought forth a shine in his eyes that rivaled even the sun. He’d spend hours watching and singing “Wheels on the Bus” on repeat and playing storytime with an endless supply of toys. Henry's family was the center of his world, and his devotion knew no bounds.

Henry's educational journey began at Holy Redeemer Elementary and Washington High School in Two Rivers, WI, graduating in 1967. He continued his studies at Manitowoc County Teachers College and Silver Lake College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. Furthering his passion for environmental science, he obtained a master’s degree from University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, with a thesis focusing on Bird Arts & Sciences. His thirst for knowledge led him to continue his education throughout the years with additional courses and conferences such as his studies at UC Berkeley’s Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the AESP Annual conferences in San Antonio.

Ornithology held a special place in Henry's heart, sparking a lifelong fascination with birds and their songs. His ability to mimic their calls with uncanny accuracy was a source of delight for all who had the pleasure of witnessing it. One of Joann’s favorite memories was of Henry during an outdoor master class in their graduate program, where he spotted a chickadee and started whistling its song. Before long, the trees were full of chickadees, delighting his classmates. Henry’s sons remember him holding out his hand with seeds while they were young, calling the birds, and they would land on it, creating a simple yet joyful connection with nature.

Throughout his life, Henry held various roles, each reflecting his commitment to service and education. He worked diligently on his father's milk route, waking up at the crack of dawn to complete deliveries before school. Years later he would often revel with his siblings in the memories of their shenanigans during this task, demonstrating that his wit, humor, and jokes were life-long traits. He served his hometown community through his work at the Two Rivers Community House and various City of Two Rivers departments and continued this service in his chosen community of De Pere, using his expertise at the City of De Pere Engineering Department during the summers.

As his career, Henry dedicated nearly four decades as an Earth Science teacher at Parkview Middle School in the Ashwaubenon School District. His sons remember going to his classroom and exploring the various rocks, of which Henry knew each name and how they were formed and reminisce on the nights of stargazing where he’d organize an experience for family, students, and colleagues where they’d explore the sky with his telescope igniting curiosity and awe in all. Henry's encyclopedic knowledge of earth sciences was legendary, and he generously shared his insights, identifying flora and fauna for students and family members alike. His dedication to inspiring students through these hands-on, experiential learning opportunities as well as his dedication to extra-curricular activities such as supporting athletics with timing and scoring, brought him many rewards and accolades. After ‘retiring’, he went to work as the Energy Educator Specialist, where he played a vital role in helping the district save funds on energy use, ensuring a greater ability to meet the needs of all students. His education career spanned close to 50 years, reaching thousands of students and families.

Henry's interests were as diverse as they were deep-rooted. He found solace and joy in the outdoors, spending countless hours working in the woods, making maple syrup, and planting trees. Henry's volunteer work with 4-H as an aerospace leader, Boy Scouts from tiger cubs to Eagle, and the West De Pere Phantom Band Parents exemplified his dedication to community and family.

He spent years waking up early to play basketball with friends and family (until the age of 70) and had a long history of sporting and musical events. Like his Dad and Uncles, he possessed a voice that resonated with warmth and melody. From singing in school groups to serenading his grandchildren with beloved tunes, Henry's love for music transcended generations, filling his home with laughter, song, and cherished memories. This set the example for his sons and resulted with Henry being a fixture at their never-ending soccer, baseball, basketball, cross-country, music, theater, etc. events, driving miles upon miles to cheer them on with pride and enthusiasm.

Henry (Hank) Jude Schmitt’s wit, humor, and powerful reserve endeared him to all who knew him, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and learning. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As he joins his loved ones in eternal peace, may his memory be a blessing and his spirit live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Friends may call at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church on Friday, April 12, 2024, from 9:00AM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00AM with Fr. James Baraniak O.Praem. officiating.

We’ll miss you, Hank/Dad/Grandpa - love you and see you again.