Vivian Schmitz

Vivian Schmitz, age 91 of Lac du Flambeau, WI, formerly of Michigan died on Monday, September 23rd at Lakeshore Assisted Living Center in Lac du Flambeau, WI. Vivian was born January 24, 1928 in Berkley, Michigan the daughter of Pearl and Emma Stritmatter. At the age of 7, polio took away her eye sight. After 3 years at a school for the blind, she was able to return home to her parents. She was a survivor when life was difficult she tended to look on the bright side. No matter what the situation, she believed there was always hope. That was her attitude, she rarely complained. Vivian married Henry Schmitz on December 18, 1945 in Berkley, MI.
She is survived by her great grandson Jayden Johnathan Smith and her son-in-law John Kintop Jr. Vivian was preceded in death by her husband Henry Schmitz, daughter Beverly Kintop and grandchildren Brandee Lynn and John S. Kintop.
Vivian was a simple woman in touch with God, she was a faithful member of Rock of Ages Lutheran Church since 2001. She was a very warm….loving…dynamic woman with unshakeable courage. She was a beautiful person inside and out.
She would have a big smile when someone came to visit. Vivian made vistors feel welcome and appreciated each time you entered her home, whether alone or with a friend. There was a sharing of history, personal stories and then coffee or tea and some delicious cookies.
Vivian’s ability to warm your heart was awesome. We came to lift her spirits and left her home knowing she gave more than was given to her.
She treasured the memories of her husband Henry, daughter Beverly (John) and grandchildren John and Brandee and her great grandson Jayden. Vivian was so happy when John would always pick her up for the holidays so she could celebrate with her family.
As she moved into womanhood she regained a little of her sight. She devoted her life to her family, caring for her grandchildren and her great grandson when they were children. This was never a job for her, but gave her pleasure. She loved animals, especially her dog Sammy and her cat.
With the help of her daughter and son-in-law, Vivian was able to buy a home in Lac du Flambeau. With the help of the society for the blind and her friends she was able to plant the flowers she loved. Vivian raked leaves and even attempted to mow her own lawn with a push lawn mower. She never sat while others worked. She cooked meals and cleaned her own house. She still vacuumed her carpets at the age of 91.
In spite of the challenge of being legally blind she had a positive attitude. Those who knew her will remember her and be thankful for the friendship and the love Vivian shared with us. Her memory lives on through her great grandson Jayden and her son-in-law John and every life she touched.
Who she was we will never forget, no matter what life deals us her life will remind us to keep on smiling and walking forward handling each challenge as it comes.
Memorial Services for Vivian will be held on Thursday, October 10th at 2:30 PM at Rock of Ages Lutheran Church with fellowship following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Jayden Smith Educational Fund, c/o Nicolet National Bank, PO Box 54, Minocqua, WI 54548.
Family and friends wish to sincerely thank the staff at One Penny Place, Marshfield Clinic, Emergency Room, ICU and 3rd floor at Howard Young Medical Center, Lakeshore Living, HYF Dr. Kate Lakeland Hospice and the ladies of Rock of Ages for all of your care and compassion.
Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com
NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.