Brian Schmitz

Brian John Schmitz, 63, of Franklin, Wis., passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 24, 2021, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Milwaukee.  

He was born Nov. 20, 1957, in Port Washington to Roman Schmitz and Adeline (Miller) Schmitz.  

 Brian graduated from Cedar Grove High School in 1976 and later attended college for computer programming. He recently retired from InSinkErator in Racine after 20-plus years of service.

Brian was an extremely cheerful and optimistic person, always excited to be on the move and to see what each day would bring.

He enjoyed all things sports, including cheering on the Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Badgers and watching other college and professional teams. He was a passionate golfer and enjoyed playing golf with his friends.

Brian was also a movie buff, loving both black and white pictures, sci-fi and action-packed thrillers. Brian was an avid reader, visiting his local library frequently.

He also enjoyed traveling, visiting friends and family in many different states throughout the years.

Brian was a man of faith, reading devotionals and praying daily. He attended church at St. James Catholic Parish and St. Alphonsus Catholic Parish, where he served in a ministry of driving other people to doctor’s appointments. He was a loving caregiver to his elderly mother until she passed away.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents Roman Schmitz and Adeline (Miller) Schmitz and his sister Darlene Payne.

Brian is survived by his siblings Wayne (Joyce) Schmitz of Trinity, Fla., twin brother Bruce Schmitz of Phoenix, Ariz., and Joann (Scott) Lawton of Wittenberg, Wis.; three nieces, Rachel Payne of Arizona, Gina Lawton of Wisconsin and goddaughter Stacy Schmitz of Florida; two nephews, Sampson Payne and Jacob (Meg) Payne; a great-nephew, Samuel Payne; a great-niece, Jocelyn Payne, all of Arizona; and many other relatives and friends.

A Catholic Mass and Christian burial will be held at a later date.

Eernisse Funeral Home of Port Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.