Gerhard Alphonse "Smitty" Schmitz Jr.

Gerhard "Smitty" Alphonse Schmitz, Jr., age 84, of Westphalia, Missouri, passed away on December 20, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on September 7, 1941, in Westphalia, Missouri, the son of Gerhard M. and Rose Marie (Hagenhoff) Schmitz. On July 31, 1965, he was united in marriage to Linda Kay Koenig, who survives at the home.
Gerhard, affectionately known as "Smitty," was a hardworking and dedicated man throughout his life. He spent his career as a route salesman in the beverage industry, retiring after 26 years with Budweiser/N.H. Scheppers, and later working 11 years with Backer's Potato Chips Company.
He was a faithful member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Westphalia and was deeply involved in his community. Smitty was a proud Knight of Columbus, holding 3rd and 4th Degree membership in the Monsignor Ralph Kutz Assembly. He was also a member of the Westphalia Lions Club. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, golfing, traveling, and most of all spending time with his family.
Survivors include his loving wife, Linda Kay Schmitz, of Westphalia; five children, Edna Webster (James), Patrick Schmitz (LeAnn), Larry Schmitz (Donna), Stephanie VanHooser (Mike), and Aaron Schmitz (Marcy); along with multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Edna; one brother, Jerome and a granddaughter, Victoria Schmitz.
Friends and family will be received from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Westphalia. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dylan Shrader officiating. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Westphalia.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Jude's Hospital.
Arrangements are under the direction of HILKE-MILLARD Funeral Home, 101 Linn Street; Westphalia, MO 65085. (573) 455-2424. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com