October 14, 1941 ~ April 3, 2021
Paul A. Schmit was born October 14, 1941 in Pawnee City to Harry and Josephine (Ullman) Schmit and passed away April 3, 2021 at The Journey House in Lincoln, NE at the age of 79. He was the youngest of five children in the family.
He grew up in Steinauer and attended St. Anthony’s grade school, then attended high school in Steinauer and graduated in 1959. He attended Milford Technical College after high school and was a member of the United States Navy from 1963-1966. He then joined his brother, Bob, working for the family business, “Schmit’s Garage.”
Paul met Theresa Goracke in 1968 and they were married February 14, 1970 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Mary, NE. They welcomed a daughter, Stefanie Ann on August 24, 1973. Paul and Theresa were married for over 51 years.
Paul was a lifetime member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Steinauer, where he was an active member of the parish, served as a lector, and a member of the Knights of Columbus. Paul also served on the Steinauer Village Board for over 40 years. He was the Fire Chief for several years with the Steinauer Volunteer Fire Department. He was also an active member of the American Legion.
Paul loved hunting, fishing, and helping people in the community. He was especially good at making people smile and laugh with his never-ending jokes and stories. He also brightened many people’s day with songs… “You are my Sunshine,” “A Bushel and a Peck,” and “Happy Birthday,” to you on your special day.
Paul is survived by his wife, Theresa. His daughter Stefanie, son-in-law Ryan, and grandson Gunnar Gottula of Lincoln. Siblings and spouses: Aladean (Dean) Shuck of Beatrice. David (Maggie) Schmit of Lincoln. Sister-in-Laws: Marie Schmit of Steinauer. Sue (Jim) Clark of Idaho Falls, ID. Suzie Goracke of Sterling. Cathy Gillette (Matt Johnson) of Lincoln. Jane (Dan) Dougherty of Lincoln. Brother-in-Laws: Ralph (Christine) Goracke of Punta Gordo, FL. Many nieces and nephews.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Josephine and Harry Schmit, brother Bob Schmit, sister Erma Hindera and her husband Adam. Brother-in-Laws: Joe Goracke and Marc Gillette. Nieces: Diane Rhoden and Lori Schmit. Many aunts and uncles.
Visitation 4-6 pm Tuesday followed by a Rosary at 6pm at Butherus, Maser & Love Chapel, Lincoln. Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 am Wednesday at St. Anthony Church, Steinauer, NE. Burial with military honors in St. Anthony Cemetery. Memorial donations to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation or to the family. Condolences: www.bmlfh.com