Thomas Russell Schmitt

Thomas Russell Schmitt, age 84, passed away on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at The Villa at West Branch. He was born on April 16, 1936 in West Branch to Russell and Theresa “Irene” (Green) Schmitt. Tom lived in West Branch all of his life. On October 12, 1957, he married Janet Bragg in West Branch.

Tom served in the United States Army from 1959-1961 with the USA Polar R&D Center, specifically moving supplies across Greenland to Camp Century. He was a lifelong member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed photography, hunting, fishing, woodworking, playing cards, working around on his tractor and helping his neighbors. Tom took pride in his garden and won many awards for his produce at the Ogemaw County Fair. He especially cherished all of his time spent with his family and friends.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Janet Schmitt of West Branch; children, Rusty (Mary) Schmitt of West Branch, Randy (Vonnie) Schmitt of Rose City, and Rose Wiltse of Rose City; grandchildren, Amber (Bobby) Bonnell, Victoria Schmitt, Tommy Schmitt, Miranda Schmitt, Richard Schmitt, Joshua (Mayra) Schmitt, Lynn (Francis) Wilson, and Brittany Wiltse; great grandchildren, Clint, Ari, Clay, Easton, Bradley and Matthew; brother, James (Diane) Schmitt of West Branch; and brother-in-law, Dallas Ostrander. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Phyllis Ostrander.

Visitation at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will begin on Monday, April 19, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A private funeral mass will be held.

Visitation will be held with precautions, due to the current pandemic, limiting the number of attendees at a given time.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Joseph Catholic School.

Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com