Philip J. Schmitz, 91, born in Richland County, ND to John and Margaret Schmitz, passed away Jan 9, 2017. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and 5 sisters.
Philip served nearly 4 years in the Navy during WWII. Afterward, he worked for the Soo Line Railroad for 20 Years, and later for the Burlington Northern Railroad, serving in many capacities.
Philip was married to Violet (Stanley) for many years. He worked hard to provide for his family. He was resourceful, and seemed to be able to fix and repair most anything. Philip liked to garden and go fishing, but his passion was music, and he instilled that love for music in his family. He was always in a local band, playing guitar and singing. Later in life, he loved ballroom dancing, and also enjoyed his precious grandchildren.
Philip is survived by his 6 children, Debra Licht, Stuart Schmitz, Lana Sanders and husband, Greg, Larry Schmitz and wife, Leslye, Lisa Briggs and husband John, Timothy Schmitz, 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Services will be held Tuesday, January 17 at Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at Rivermonte chapel, 4500 S. Lone Pine Ave, Springfield, MO. Visitation will be at 10:30 am, followed by a service at 11:00 am. Military service will be at 2:00 pm, MO Veterans Cemetery, 5201 S. Southwood Rd, Springfield, MO.
Online condolences may be made to www.klingnerfuneralhome.com.