William Richard Schmitt

William "Bill" Richard Schmitt

Age 65, entered into eternal life on Wednesday, September 25, 2013 with his loving family by his side.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Mary Kay (nee Smolich) ; loving father of Nancy (Scott) Lewandowski, Laura Schmitt- Mau, and Cathy (Brad) Blankenship; dearest grandfather of Abby, Blake, and Cara Lewandowski, Dylan and Leila Mau, William and Daniel Blankenship; cherished brother of Robert R., Thomas D. (Cindy), and James M. Schmitt, Donna (Russ) Meiferdt, and Kathy (Jim) Cumpston; sister-in-law, Kathleen Kruk; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Joanne and Doug Marshall; also survived by his Peoria relatives with whom he had a very special connection, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Marjorie (nee Dillon); Mother-in-law and Father-in-law, Evelyn (nee Mance) and Edward Smolich; brother-in-law, John Smolich; and brother, Fred Kruk.

Bill had a passion for playing the drums. He belonged to many different bands throughout his life, most recently he was the founder of "Band X" of Joliet. Bill was the current Building Manager of the Knights of Columbus, Joliet Council #382, where he also served as a member of the board of directors and was an active member since 1967. He founded The Instrument Specialist Corporation and Fast Printing of Joliet. Bill retired from BASF, Joliet. Bill attended St. John's Grade School, Joliet Catholic High School, and Joliet Junior College where he earned his Associates Degree in Instrumentation. He was an avid White Sox fan. He loved camping at WRC since 1972, trap shooting, and golfing. Bill was a most devoted father. He never missed his daughters' softball games and coached them for many years at Crest Hill Junior Miss Softball. He was so proud of his three daughters and his grandchildren. Bill was a dedicated husband to Mary Kay, his high school sweetheart, and life-long best friend. Bill had a smile that could light up a room. He had a magnetic personality and was someone that people just loved to be around. Like his father, he loved life and all of the people in it. Bill will be greatly missed by all who knew him. His memories and love will live on through all of us.

A Celebration of Bill's life will begin with a visitation on Sunday, September 29, 2013 from 4 – 8 p.m. and Monday, September 30, 2013 from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet. Inurnment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Romeoville.