Harold J. Schmitz

Harold J. Schmitz Jr., Age 75, entered eternal life on Monday, June 9, 2014 with his loving family by his side.

Harold was born in Joliet and grew up in Lockport, graduating from Lockport Township High School and Joliet Junior College. Harold enrolled into the University of Maryland prior to enlisting into the United States Army. Because of his drafting expertise he was assigned duty in the 293rd Engineer Battalion in Baumholder, Germany where his responsibilities were the designing and rebuilding of roads destroyed during WWII. Harold's return to the states brought his employment with the State of Illinois designing specifically route 83. After joining Barr-Vavrus, land developers for new homeowners, he then became vice president of Vavrus and Associates, meeting the need for housing for "baby boomers" in the early 70's with multi-level apartment complexes in Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Georgia. He developed his own company in 1976, Winsted Builders, with his partner and brother, Mark Schmitz, building homes then on to commercial properties, churches, and libraries. Prior to retirement, his company was the general contractor of Inwood Ice Arena and Splash Station. Harold was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, and a widely respected businessman.

Harold is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Bonita "Bonnie" Schmitz (nee Brake); loving children John (Briel) Schmitz and Jennifer (Paul) Davidson; cherished grandchildren, Quinn and Avery Davidson; dear brother, Mark (Leana) Schmitz; dear sister, Caroline (Ron) Geskey; also survived by numerous loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceded in death by his parents, Harold Sr. and Genevieve (nee Cora) Schmitz; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his four legged best friend, Yogi.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Harold's name to Trinity Christian School in Shorewood.

A Celebration of Harold's life will begin on Thursday, June 12, 2014 with a visitation from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service to be held at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment to follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood. Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 11, 2014 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60435. American Legion Post 1080 will conduct a service at 7:00 p.m.