Gerald Schmitz

Gerald “Jerry” A. Schmitz, age 71 of Montello passed away Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Meriter Hospital in Madison. Jerry was born in Portage on July 29, 1954 to Erwin and Beverly (Zink) Schmitz. He graduated from Montello High School in 1972 and married Cindy Foley on October 29, 1983 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Montello.

Jerry was affectionately known by many as “Erv”. He had many careers throughout his life; his gift to be able to talk to anyone led him to his most notable job as the bartender at Lakeside in Montello. When Jerry wasn’t working, he enjoyed the outdoors especially hunting and fishing as well as spending time with family and friends at his place in North Dakota. Jerry will be remembered for his smart-ass sense of humor and his love for the Milwaukee Brewers.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 41 years, Cindy and sister, Carolyn Szafran of Princeton as well as nieces and nephews: Rob (Lisa) Korb, Tom Korb and Lorrie (John) Szafran along with their children. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law: Pam Lempke and Janet “Buttercup” (Robert) Hartman and nieces and nephews: Angie (Ed) Frank, Melissa (Jayson) Peschel, Tom (Stephanie) Lempke and Nicholas (Crystal) Hartman along with their children.

A Celebration of Jerry’s Life will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 2:00 until 6:00 PM at Drew’s Lakeside Bar and Grill, 219 W. Water Street, Montello.

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Montello and Oxford is honored to be serving the family. www.CrawfordFH.com