LeRoy Henry "Boots" Schmidt

LeRoy Henry “Boots” Schmidt Born in Racine Wisconsin on July 16, 1925. Died peacefully after a short illness on Friday, January 9, 2015 at the age of 89. Survived by devoted wife of 68 years, Phyllis (Rankin), loving children, Randy (Marlene) Schmidt, Patricia (Gary) Brand, and Lee (Tamara) Schmidt; grandchildren, Christopher (Julia) Brand, Kelly (Brandon) Koll, Janel (John) Clausen, Michael Schmidt, Katie (Chad) Svendsen, Cory (Destiny) Schmidt and 13 great grandchildren. Further survived by many more family members and friends including brothers Florn Schmidt and Fred (Lois) Schmidt, and sisters Alice (Robert) Hornby and Sharon (Dale) Slaasted. Boots was a WWII veteran who retired from American Motors in 1987. He had a passion for collecting old cars and working with his hands; he was an excellent mechanic who could fix anything you put in front of him. Over the years he traveled all over the United States in his RV, and one of his favorite spots was the Smoky Mountains. He loved hiking and being active outdoors, especially walking his beloved dog, Buddy. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends at his trailer at the Camp Delton Club in Lake Delton, WI. The family would like to thank Dr. Calderwood and his office staff for making Boots feel like family, as well as the nursing and hospice staff at Wheaton Franciscan CVI-ICU for their compassion and loving care. OK Dad, “we’re gonna get this show on the road.” Visitation will be on Friday, January 16, 2015 from 4-6 p.m. at Wilson Funeral Home with a short memorial reading , and a reception to follow. Memorials may be directed to Phyllis Schmidt, who will in turn use them to go toward the purchase of a bench in memory of Boots at the Camp Delton Club. Condolences may be expressed at www.wilson funeralhomeracine.com Wilson Funeral Home 1212 Lathrop Avenue 262-634-3361