David Michael Schmitz

David Michael Schmitz, 67, of Spokane, WA, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, after many years of health challenges. Though a stroke made communication difficult in recent years, his sense of humor and love for life never dimmed—often shining through in a smile, a look, or a perfectly timed gesture that said everything without needing words. Those who loved him understood him perfectly.

David’s story began on March 30, 1958, when he made his debut to his proud parents, Patrick and Audrey (Frederiksen) Schmitz, in New Ulm, MN. The family lived in Springfield, MN, and later moved to St. Peter, MN, where David attended John Ireland School and graduated from St. Peter High School in 1976.

Shortly after graduation, David headed west to Washington, where fate stepped in. On May 7, 1986, he met Nancy (Lucas), who would become his wife of nearly 40 years. They made their home in Kennewick, WA, eventually retiring to Spokane to be closer to their children. Together, David and Nancy were blessed with two daughters and later a granddaughter, Ophelia, who quickly became the light of David’s world.

A mason by trade and a craftsman at heart, David could often be found tinkering or working on wood projects after retiring. He held a lifelong love of hunting, dogs, and baseball—a passion that began on the field with his father and stayed with him throughout his life.

David is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughters Elsa (Brandt) Blankenship and Melissa (Ryan) Hayes; granddaughter Ophelia Blankenship; his mother, Audrey Schmitz of St. Peter, MN; sisters Lori (John) Connor of Owatonna, MN, and Ann Brooks of St. Peter, MN; brothers Jim (Cheryl) Schmitz of Eden Prairie, MN, and Mike (Karla) Schmitz of Cleveland, MN; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

David was preceded in death by his infant sister, Susan Marie; his father, Pat; grandparents Pat and Annice Schmitz and Elmer and Elsie Frederiksen; and his uncle and aunt, Roy and Alice Frederiksen.

Though the last few innings of life were not easy, David faced them with quiet strength. His family finds peace knowing he has rounded his final base and is now Safe at Home.

A Funeral Mass for David will be held on Saturday, March 21st at 11:00 AM at St. Peter Catholic Church in St. Peter, MN. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service.

Following the service and luncheon, the family warmly invites all to gather at the American Legion Club in St. Peter from 1:00–4:00 PM to share stories, raise a pint, and celebrate David’s life the way he would have loved—with good company, good memories, and a little laughter.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be given in honor of David.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by Mankato Area Funeral Homes.

Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product. Please note, if the live stream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.