Paul Henry Schmitz

HOUSTON, MINN. - Paul Henry Schmitz, 61, of rural Houston, Minn. died peacefully at his home on Monday, October 16, surrounded by his loving family after a long courageous battle. Paul was born on December 30, 1944, in Sparta, Wis. to Henry and Eveline (Schultz) Schmitz. He moved to the Houston area as a boy. On January 8, 1966, he married Doris Gora in Winona, Minn. Paul worked in the road construction industry all of his career, retiring from Mathy Construction in 2002. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Paul is survived by his wife of 40 years, Doris; four children: Rose Schmitz, Robert Schmitz, Paul E. (Katie) Schmitz, and Valerie (Larry) Traun; five grandchildren, and three step-grandchildren; four siblings: Lillian (Bill) Stallman, Arlene (Charles) Chamberlain, Glen (Maribeth) Schmitz, and Doris (Sam) Litman. He was preceded in death by his son, John; sister, Linda; and parents Henry and Eveline. There will be a Funeral Mass for Paul at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 21, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Houston with the Rev. Joseph Pete officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Houston. Hoff Funeral Homes - Houston Chapel is assisting the family with funeral arrangements. Please feel free to sign the guest book or leave a memory of Paul with the family at www.hofffuneral.com