Orlando Schmitt
Orlando S. Schmitt, 84, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2020.
He was born Sept. 2, 1936, in Athens, son of the late Sylvester and Linda (Hardt) Schmitt. On Sept. 14, 1968, Orlando married the love of his life, Charlene Kreft, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Athens. She preceded him in death on Dec. 1, 2009.
Orlando was a very hard worker with a great sense of humor. He worked the majority of his life at Marmet Corporation and on the family farm, which he was very proud of. In 1991, after 30+ years of farming, Orlando and his wife decided to make a change and move to Wausau, where Orlando finished his final career years with Wausau Tile.
He also had a love for cars, especially his special red Chevy that he spent many road trips before he was married. Orlando loved to bowl, play sheepshead, travel, casino trips, desserts and anything sweet, and most of all his family and friends. He also enjoyed playing accordion for family gatherings.
Survivors include his children: Michele (Michael) Koss and Jodie (Chad) Bacon; grandchildren: Taylor Harrison, Kassandra Koss, Michael D. Koss, Carnissa Schmitt, Miranda Bacon and Bronson Bacon; and great-grandchild, Aurora Charlene Schmitt. He is also survived by brothers: Duane Schmitt and Darrell Schmitt; and sister, Nathlie Venzke.
Besides his parents and wife Charlene, he was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Marvin Venzke; a sister-in-law, Helen Schmitt; a sister, Sherri Kreft; and a nephew, Scott Venzke.
A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec 3, 2020, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Athens, with Rev. Mark Schwalenberg presiding. Burial was in Calvary Cemetery, Athens. Visitation was Thursday from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Current social distancing and protocols were followed.
The family would also like to thank the special staff who took care of Orlando on the Covid unit at The Bay of Colonial Manor.
Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Athens, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.
Paid obituary 98208
