JAMES JOSEPH SCHMITZ, age 79, from Lakefield, formerly from Okabena, died Thursday, February 7, 2013 at the
Colonial Manor Nursing Home in Lakefield.  He was born on February 12, 1933 in Dundee to parents, Joseph and Rose (Uhlken) Schmitz.  He attended primary school in Heron Lake.  After his schooling he served in the United States Navy from 1950 to 1953.  Jim served during the Korean War on the USS Windambay air craft carrier. After the navy he worked for Skaggs Market in Worthington.
On August 21, 1954 James was united in marriage to Betty Ann Hurley.  After their marriage he became the father of Steven in March of 1955. Jim worked for Metz baking company until the family moved to Mankato.  While living in Mankato he sold insurance for Equitable.  Jim and Betty then moved to Minneapolis and Jim worked for Groves-kelco until 1990. In the spring of 1992, Jim and Betty bought a house in Okabena and managed the Okabena Liquor Store until 1996 when he retired.
Jim enjoyed traveling to Las Vegas with Betty, playing card games on Wednesdays. He also enjoyed his Navy reunions and many gatherings with family and friends.  He especially enjoyed his family and was very proud of both of his grandchildren.  People were always welcomed to come and enjoy a meal and concersation whenever they were in town.
He is survived by his son, Steve (MaDonna) Schmitz, Bloomington, two grandchildren, Matthew and Michael, two brothers, Joe Schmitz, Gene (Jeanie) Schmitz, and one sister Carol Groene.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Genevieve, Darlene and one brother, Merle.

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