|
| |
Medford - Clarke Schmitz, born on September 22, 1939, peacefully passed away on December 8, 2023, in the comfort of his residence in rural Medford. He was surrounded by his loving family during his final moments.
Clarke was born on a family farm west of Lamont to Lloyd and Maggie Schmitz. He grew up in the beauty of rural life and developed a deep reverence for nature. Clarke's connection to the land shaped the core of who he was and defined his passions throughout his life.
In 1961, he married Janice Rider at Jefferson Methodist Church, embarking on a lifelong journey together as partners.
A man of many interests, Clarke found solace in hunting and fishing. Spending time outdoors allowed him to connect with nature and brought him immense joy. Additionally, Clarke had a fondness for keeping his pond stocked with fish—an activity that brought him tremendous satisfaction.
An avid farmer, Clarke shared countless adventures alongside his brother-in-law, Terry, at auctions. Their shared enthusiasm for acquiring "valuable junk" was renowned amongst their loved ones. If an auctioneer even mentioned the word "antique," it would become impossible for them to resist adding it to their collections.
Clarke possessed an incredible ability to strike up conversations effortlessly and make everyone around him feel welcome. He never met a stranger—an attribute that endeared him to all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. His engaging nature allowed him to form meaningful connections that lasted a lifetime.
Throughout his professional career, Clarke dedicated himself tirelessly to various occupations, leaving a lasting impact on those with whom he worked. From 1965 to 1982, he served at Clyde Coop, followed by his time at Blubaugh Chevrolet from 1982 to 1984. Clarke then ventured into auto repair at Anvil Auto Repair between 1984 and 1987 before returning to Clyde Coop from 1987 to 1994. Thereafter, he joined Wako in 1994. In his later years, Clarke served as a dedicated mail carrier in Manchester from 2014 until his passing in 2023.
Devout in his faith, Clarke held a deep love for the Lord and was an active member of the Methodist Church. Through his unwavering commitment, he participated in various church committees. Clarke's dedication was unparalleled, earning him the reputation of being an influential figure within the church—an embodiment of kindness and compassion.
Family always held a special place in Clarke's heart. His children, Brenda Turner, Brent and Suzan Schmitz, were his pride and joy. Clarke cherished every moment spent with them, witnessing their growth and successes.
The arrival of grandchildren brought immense joy to Clarke's life. Logan Turner, Mason Turner, Bradley Schmitz, Megan Schmitz, and Rachel Schmitz were the apples of his eye. He celebrated their achievements with overflowing pride and embraced the role of grandfather wholeheartedly.
Later in life, as great-grandchildren entered the picture—Wesson Schmitz, Kimber Schmitz, and Karter Daniels—Clarke experienced profound happiness watching yet another generation blossom under his loving guidance.
Clarke is preceded in death by his brothers, Darrell and Monte and a baby sister.
Clarke is survived by his wife, Janice; two children, Brenda Turner and Brent and Susan Schmitz; five grandchildren, Logan and Mason Turner, Bradley, Megan and Rachel Schmitz; three great grandchildren, Wesson Schmitz, Kimber Schmitz and Karter Daniels.
As we bid farewell to Clarke, let us celebrate the incredible life he led—a life filled with laughter and love. Clarke will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a cherished friend.
Memorial service for Clarke Schmitz will be Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Medford Methodist Church. Arrangements are by Lanman Funeral Home, Inc. of Medford. www.lanmanfuneralhome.com Facebook: Lanman Funeral Home Inc.
This site may be freely linked, but not duplicated in any way without consent.
All rights reserved! Commercial use of material within this site is prohibited!
© 2000-2024 Oklahoma CemeteriesThe information on this site is provided free for the purpose of researching your genealogy. This material may be freely used by non-commercial entities, for your own research, as long as this message remains on all copied material. The information contained in this site may not be copied to any other site without written "snail-mail" permission. If you wish to have a copy of a donor's material, you must have their permission. All information found on these pages is under copyright of Oklahoma Cemeteries. This is to protect any and all information donated. The original submitter or source of the information will retain their copyright. Unless otherwise stated, any donated material is given to Oklahoma Cemeteries to make it available online. This material will always be available at no cost, it will always remain free to the researcher.