Robert F. Schmitt

Robert F. "Bob" Schmitt, 84, a lifelong resident of Rockford passed away peacefully Sunday, February 19, 2012 with his family by his side. Born September 11, 1927, the son of Andrew J. and Norma B. Schmitt. Bob graduated from East High School in 1945, was a veteran of US Navy following WWII and the US Army during the Korean Conflict. He graduated from the University of Colorado in 1953 and returned to Rockford, where he pursued an insurance career. Married Patricia Severin on September 24, 1955. Bob worked as an insurance agent for Employers Insurance of Wausau before founding Herrling and Schmitt Insurance Agency. Bob served on many charitable boards and community organizations and was a lifelong member of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity. His greatest pleasure was serving as a member and past President of SCORE, providing workshops and counseling for entrepreneurs to start, grow and succeed in small business. He enjoyed golf, playing bridge, the Green Bay Packers and spending time with family and friends. He was a man of integrity, dependable and loyal. Survivors include Patti (wife sons Bob (Becky) of Whitefish Bay, WI, Thom (Wendy) of Lawrenceville, GA , and Jim Schmitt of Rockford; grandchildren Jenny, Julia, Rachel, AJ and Alex Schmitt and a sister Vera Bannen, Chesterfield, MO. The family wishes to give special thanks to Jake Shagddar his caregiver during these final weeks, Sally Miller, Angela McChesney Olson, Dr. Paul Bannen and the great people of Northern Illinois Hospice for helping us through this process. Memorial service to held on Thursday, February 23, 2012 at 11:00am at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2821 North Bell School Road, Rockford, IL. Family will receive visitors on Wed evening at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Thursday at church from 10 until time of service. In lieu of flowers , memorials in his name can be made to Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center, 4215 Newburg Road, Rockford, IL 61108.