Lawrence Schmitz

Lawrence Joseph Schmitz, age 80, of Columbus, OH went home to be with the Lord on October 11, 2018 due to complications of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.  Larry was born January 7, 1938 in Lakewood, OH to Joseph and Dorothy (nee Manzell) who preceded him in death. He was a loving husband to Charlotte (nee Wulff) for 51 years; dear brother of Emil (deceased) and Susan Pipas.  He is survived by his children Raymond, Deborah Littleton (Stephen), Mark, Christine Bowman (Aaron). Beloved grandfather of Gregory (Mariah) Brandon (Alexis), Aidan, Eli, Amelia, Lila; cherished great-grandfather of Jayce, Mason; treasured uncle to many nieces and nephews; companion to his fur-baby Cody.  Faithful steward of Vineyard Church of Columbus and member of Second Wind small group.

Larry grew up in Parma, OH, subsequently moving to Cleveland after marrying his sweet Charlotte on May 20, 1967.  After raising their family in Cleveland, they transplanted their roots by settling in Columbus in 2009. Larry was a proud painting and drywall apprentice, self-taught plumber and electrical wizard, and owned his own remodeling business, L.J. Schmitz Company.  During 1980-1983 Larry applied his custodial skills while working at St. Mary’s Church. In 1983, Larry joined Westlake City Schools as head custodian, working faithfully for 21 years, until retirement in October 2004.

Singing, fixing things, repairing cars with his brother, fishing and hunting with brothers-in-law were among Larry’s favorite hobbies.  Larry also loved engaging and chatting with friends, neighbors, teachers and children while working at the school, and sharing his faith whenever the opportunity arose.

Friends and family are asked to join in a Celebration of Life gathering at Vineyard Church of Columbus, in the chapel, 6000 Cooper Road, Westerville, OH on Saturday, October 27, 2018.  Visitation will be from 10:30-11:30 am.  The service will begin at 11:30 with a luncheon to immediately follow. All are welcome. Please park in the North parking lot. The family would like to thank Pastor Kent Irwin for officiating. Funeral arrangements by Shaw-Davis Funeral Home; condolences may be shared at www.shaw-davis.com.