Allen R. Schmitz, age 64 of New Prauge, died unexpectedly at Mayo Hospital in Mankato on Friday, March 25, 2016. Celebration of Life service to be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 31 at Friendship Church: 17741 Fairlawn Ave., Prior Lake, MN 55372.  Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the church.

Al was born on August 22, 1951 to Herbert and Antoinette “Tony” (Tholkes) Schmitz in Northfield, MN.  Al graduated from Bethlehem Academy High School in Faribault.  He attended St. Thomas University and also Brown College.  Al married Kathy Wieben on December 9, 1978 in Mankato.

Al is survived by his wife of 37 years, Kathy; children, Joe (Elisa) Schmitz of Hermantown, MN, Emily Schmitz of Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Leah (Shannon) Voigt of Shakopee, MN; grandchildren, Elly, Drew, and Blake Schmitz, and Katelynnd Voigt; siblings, Richard “Dick” (Bev) Schmitz of Prior Lake, Herb “Hip” (Anita Zwart) Schmitz of Hayward, WI, and Terry (Rose) Schmitz of Savage; mother-in-law, Charlotte Wieben of Farmington; and many loving extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Charlotte Schmitz; brother, Donald Schmitz; father-in-law, Harold Wieben; and sister-in-law, Delores Schmitz.

Al will always be remembered for his love of God, wife Kathy, family, and friends.  His love, compassion, generosity, and laughter will be cherished by all.  In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred and will be designated to ministries that Al loved.