James E. Schmitt, Sr., 79, of Sterling, IL, died on Tuesday, July 26, 2022, at Rock River Hospice & Home in Sterling.
James was born on March 25, 1943, in Sterling, the son of Paul and Florence (Jacobs) Schmitt. He married Shirley Major on November 4, 1967, in Dixon, IL. She preceded in him death on January 4, 2015. James was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Rock Falls, IL. He worked as a plumber for many years and was a member of Local #25 Plumber’s and Pipefitter’s Union for 35 years. James loved hobby farming, and following retirement, he enjoyed camping and hanging out with friends.
Survivors include sons, Ivan (Darci) Schmitt of Sterling and James Schmitt, Jr. of Morrison, IL; sister, Janet (Melvin) Strock; brothers, Richard (Roxanne) Schmitt, and Donald Schmitt; one grandson, Zachary (Brianna) Schmitt, all of Sterling.
James was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Shirley; son, Earl Schmitt.
Visitation was held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., on Friday, July 29, 2022, at McDonald Funeral Home, 505 1st Avenue, Sterling, IL.
Funeral service followed at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, July 30, 2022, with Pastor Joel McClellan officiating.
Burial concluded at Oak Knoll Memorial Park in Sterling, IL.