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Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 19 July 1951.

Bernard J. Schlentz, Jr. 1887-1951

Ben Schlentz Dies After Short Illness

Bernard Schlentz, Jr., 63, passed away in Clarkson hospital, Omaha, Saturday where he had been a patient about two weeks. Death was from a blood ailment, his condition being serious when he was admitted to the hospital.  Mr. Schlentz had been a life-time resident of Butler county. He was a son of Bernard and Mary (Meysenburg) Schlentz, both natives of Luxemburg, who came to the Luxemburg vicinity in 1870 and located on homestead land. It was here that Bernard Jr. was born August 1, 1887 and where he grew to young manhood.  Mr. and Mrs. Schlentz and son, Bernard, moved to David City in 1900. Four or five years later Bernard and his brother, P. N. Schlentz entered in the automobile business in David City. pioneers in that field. Later as the business grew a garage was built.  Bernard Schlentz Sr. passed away November 1, 1917 and Mrs. Schlentz April 15, 1930. Bernard Jr. continued residence in the home place following their deaths.   Survivors are his brother. P. N. Schlentz and four sisters, Mrs. John P. Speicher, and Mrs. P. M. Smith of Bellwood, and Mrs. J. J. Reisdorff and Mrs. Philip Ley of David City.  One brother, John Schlentz, and two sisters, Mrs. Charles Hastert and Mrs. Harry Schmit preceded him in death.  Last rites for Mr. Schlentz were said in St. Mary's Catholic church Tuesday morning, with the Rev. W. A. Murphy in charge. Burial was in the family lot in the Luxemburg cemetery.  Six nephews, Leroy Schlentz of Lincoln Louis Hastert of Shelby, Philip Ley Jr., Earl Reisdorff, John Speicher and Philip Schlentz were pallbearers.

Reprinted from The People's Banner, David City, NE, 8 Nov 1917

Bernard J. Schlentz, Sr. 1835-1917

Bernard Schlentz Has Passed Away

Bernard Schlentz passed away Thursday, November 1st at his home in north David City. Mr. Schlentz has hail fai1ing health for some time but was only confined to his bed about ten days.  Bernard Schlentz was born in Sandweiler, Luxemburg, Germany on February 14, 1835. On January 14, 1864, he was married to Mary Meysenburg, in Sandweiler.  They came to this country the same year, and settled in Dubuque, Iowa, living there until 1870.   Then moved on the valley of this county. Eighteen years ago they moved into David City.  Mr. and Mrs. Schlentz had born to them ten children, Mrs. Margaret Speicher and Mrs. Mary Smith near Bellwood. John Schlentz of David City, Mrs. Emma Schmit of Beatrice, Mrs. Lena Hastert of Shelby, P. N. Schlentz of David City, Mrs. Carrie Reisdorff of the valley, Benjamin Schlentz of David City, and two children deceased. He leaves twenty nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  The funeral services were held from the St. Mary's church in this city, Saturday morning at 9 o'clock, Father Boll conducting them assisted by Fathers Mock and Hoffman. The body was laid away in the Luxemburg cemetery.  The pallbearers were M. J. Bouse, E. J. Dworak, Herman Ficke, Theodore Lukassen, Henry Hilger and Nicholas Schmit. Music was rendered by the St. Mary's School choir.  In the passing of Mr. Schlentz, Butler county loses one of her sturdy pioneers and a man to be greatly missed among his many acquaintances. He was a man who stood well and honored by all who knew him.  All the children attended the funeral and also a nephew Benjamin Schlentz of Elgin, Nebraska.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 15 Aug 1946

Dorothy Eugenia Schlentz 1939-1946

Jean Schlentz Was Fatally Injured in a Bicycle-Automobile Collision

Jean Schlentz, 7, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Philip Schlentz, fatally injured in a bicycle-automobile collision at 7:30 o'clock Saturday evening, died at the hospital Sunday morning about 1 o'clock. Attending physicians pronounce that although the child suffered compound fractures of the right leg. Shock was the cause of her death.  The accident happened one-half mile east of David City near the Ege hill, when Jean riding east toward home on her bicycle met two cars. Milo Pelan, 22, from near Bruno, driver of the second car and blinded by the dust, from the first car swerved his auto to avoid the accident. However the rear end of the car collided with the bicycle and Jean suffered injuries.   The car overturned in the ditch, but Mr. Pelan was uninjured.  Surviving Jean besides her parents are a brother John; three sisters, Lee, Susan and Nancy; and two grandmothers, Mrs. J. W. Schlentz and Mrs. Anna Moran.  St. Mary's Catholic church was converted into a bower of flowers for the funeral services for Jean on Monday morning. Rev. W. A. Murphy was celebrant of the mass, assisted by Rev. Clarence Reisdorff as deacon, Rev. Peter Gadient as sub-deacon and Rev. V. C. Callahan as master of ceremonies.   Four of Jean's little classmates Betty Hunt, JoAna Hem, Sandra Sobolik and Margie Lee Svoboda served as flower girls, while the pall bearers were John and Richard Moran, cousins, John Peters and Harold Speicher.  Relatives coming to attend the services were Mrs. M. E. Green of Omaha; Mr. and Mrs. H. M. Hansen and Joan, Mrs. George Denham, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Morteson and Mrs. Mary Barrett of Lincoln; Thomas Moran of Broken Bow; Thomas Barrett and John Martin of Agnew; Mr. and Mrs. John Martin of Valparaiso; Paul Martin of Wahoo; and Mr. and Mrs. Louis Hastert of Shelby.  Jean, who had finished the first grade at St. Mary's parochial school, was especially well liked by her teachers and the children of the school.  Winsome in manner and attractive in appearance, she had in her few short years won many friends among the older people of David City also. Her presence will be greatly missed in the family circle too.

Reprinted from the People's Banner, David City, NE, 29 May 1941.

John William Schlentz 1870-1941

Sudden Death of John Schlentz

Once more we are called upon to chronicle the death of one of our prominent and esteemed citizens. A man who stood high in the community and among his business associates. A man honored and respected by all who knew him.  John William Schlentz was born at Savannah, Butler County, Nebraska. July 18, I870. He died at home near David City, May 22, 1941, from a heart attack.  His death was very sudden and without any warning. He was the son of Bernard and Mary Schlentz.  He was married to Matilda Kovar, June 18, l901. To them were born four children, one son, John, dying in infancy. Those surviving besides his wife are Mrs. Paul Kosch, David City, Philip of David City and Francis of Los Angeles, California. All were present at the funeral. He is also survived by two brothers, Peter and Ben, five Sisters, Mrs. John Speicher, Mrs. Mary Schmit, Mrs. Charlie Hastert, Mrs. J. J. Reisdorff and Mrs. Philip Ley.  During his lifetime, Mr. Schlentz followed farming and stock raising. He was a director in the First National Bank, a member of St. Mary's Catholic church. Funeral services were held May 24th at 9:30 A. M., conducted by Rev. Father W. A. Murphy and burial was in St. Mary's Catholic cemetery. Music was by St. Mary's choir.  The casket carriers were Mike Hoffman, Chas. Machurek, Henry Klosterman, Lucien Haugh, John and Frank Birkel.  The honorary pallbearers were E. A. Coufal, Thomas Snee, E. J. Dworak, Cyril Humlicek, M. A. Shaw, Peter Van Bummell, Wm. Malovec, John Becak, John Eberly, Herman Kosch, Jack Peters, V. E. Dolpher Clyde Jones and Mike Medinger.  John Schlentz was a good citizen and an asset. to any community. He will be missed both In the business circles and by many others. He was of strong character and dependable.

Reprinted from the People's Banner, David City, NE, 24 Apr 1930

Mary Susanne (Meysenburg) Schlentz (1844-1930)

Funeral services were held Monday morning for Mrs. Mary Schlentz, one of Butler county's earliest pioneers, who passed away Tuesday, April 15th, at her home in north David City, following a lingering illness of six months.  Several years ago, she suffered a stroke of paralysis, and six months ago she suffered a second stroke from which she never recovered. Had she lived until Mar 17th she would have been 86 years of age.   Mary (Meysenburg) Schlentz was born in Sandweiler, Luxemburg, in 1845.  She grew to young womanhood there, and in 1865 she was united in marriage to Bernard Schlentz. Her mother died while she was still a young woman.  Shortly after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Schlentz and her father, Nick Meysenburg and family, emigrated to the United States, settling near Cascade, Iowa. They resided in Iowa until 1870 when they moved to Butler county, settling on a farm five miles north of David City. Mr. Schlentz passed away November 1, 1917.  She leaves to mourn her death five daughters and three sons, Mrs. John B Spiker, Mrs. P. M. Smith, John Schlentz, Mrs. J. J. Reisdorff, who lives on the old home place, Mrs. Phillip Ley and Ben Schlentz. A daughter, Mrs. Harry Schmidt; two sisters and one brother preceded her in death. A brother, John Meysenburg, and a sister, Mrs. Mike Demuth of the valley community also survive the deceased.  The funeral service was held at St Mary's church at 9 o'clock. Six grandsons of Mrs. Schlentz, Harry and Leland Schmidt, of Hebron; Francis Hastert, of Shelby; Phillip Schlentz, Earl Reisdorff and Marion Ley acted as pallbearers.  Music was furnished by the regular choir of the church. Interment was made in the Luxemburg cemetery.  Those in attendance at the services from a distance were Ben Schlentz and sons of Elgin; Mr. Harry Schmidt and family of Hebron; Mr. snd Mrs. LeRoy Schlentz and Mr. and Mrs. Francis Schlentz of Lincoln and Mr. and Mrs. Lux of North Bend.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 18 Apr 1952.

Matilda Frances (Kovar) Schlentz 1879-1952

Had Been Invalid For 16 Months

Death came to Mrs. John Schlentz in a Lincoln nursing home where she had been a patient several months. She suffered a stroke of paralysis 16 months ago since which time she had been and invalid.  Mrs. Schlentz entire life was spent in this vicinity. The former Matilda Frances Kovar, she was born on a farm in the Appleton vicinity February 2, 1879. Her parents were Ignac and Franciska Matel Kovar. She was one of nine Kovar children.   She was married to John W. Schlentz June 18, 1901. The couple locating on a farm east of David City. This remained her home throughout the years.  M r. Schlentz died May 22, 1941.  Four children, three sons a daughter were born to Mr. and Mrs. Schlentz.  One son, John died in infancy; the three children surviving their mother are Francis Schlentz of Los Angeles, Calif., Philip Schlentz and Mrs. Paul Kosch of David City. There are six granddaughters and three grandsons.  Other survivors are two brothers, Frank and Joseph Kovar of David City and two sisters, Mrs. Frank Styskal of Exeter and Mrs. Paul Lorenz of David City. Four sisters, Mrs. Hugo Hahn, Mrs. J. D. Oehme, Mrs. Anna Harlow and Miss Christie Kovar preceded her in death. Solemn Requiem High Mass for Mrs. Schlentz was celebrated in St. Mary's Catholic Church Thursday morning. The Rev. Clarence Reisdorff of York was celebrant. The Rev W. A. Murphy master of ceremonies, the Rev John Prachar deacon and the Rev. John Otypka sub-deacon. St. Mary's choir sang with Sister Gregory accompanist. Six nephews, Howard Kovar, Fred William Styskal, Earl Tillma, Marion Hahn and Adolph Oehme were pallbearers. Interment was in St. Mary's cemetery.   All of the immediate relatives were present at the funeral with exception of Francis Schlentz. He had left by plane on a business trip to Anchorage, Alaska before receiving the messages of his mother's serious illness and death.  Mrs. Schlentz's sister, Mrs. Frank Styskal also Mr. Styskal and two sons came from Exeter to attend the service as did nephew, Marion Hahn of Lincoln and a niece Mrs. Harold Shoemaker and her family of Norfolk.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 16 Nov 1967

Peter N. Schlentz 1875-1967

Services conducted For Retired DC Businessman Peter N. Schlentz, 91

On Saturday afternoon, Nov. 11 funeral services were conducted at the Knott Funeral Chapel here for Peter N. Schlentz, 91, former David City businessman, who died Wednesday, Nov. 8, at Lincoln General Hospital of complications resulting from a fall about three weeks earlier.  Officiating was the Rev. E. J. Nickerson of Lincoln. Pallbearers were Philip Schlentz, Philip Ley, Earl Reisdorff, Harry Reisdorff, Lee Yindrick and Robert Schrader. Burial was in David City Cemetery.  Among those coming from a distance to attend the services were Dr and Mrs. C. L. Crawford of Boca Raton, Fla., Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy Schlentz of Lincoln, Richard A. Crawford of Owatonna, Minn., Mr. and Mrs. Leland Schmitt and Mr. and Mrs. John Weidel of Hebron, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Hastert of Shelby, and Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Lux and Mrs. Phyllis Koci of Columbus.  Peter N. Schlentz, the son of Bernard and Mary Schlentz, was born Nov. 19, 1875, in rural Butler county. His parents were natives of Luxembourg and pioneer farmers in the area.  He completed a commercial course at Fremont Normal, and was married April 24, 1900, to Josephine Kosch. He farmed until the family moved to David City in 1907.  In 1908, he entered into a partnership garage business with his brother, Bernard, and continued in this operation until his retirement in 1919.  Mr. Schlentz served on the City Council here from 1926 to 1928, and in the House of Representatives of the Nebraska Legislature from the 42nd District in 1927 and 1931.  After the death of his wife and the sale of their home as the site for the new Lincoln Tele phone and Telegraph Co. building here, he moved in October 1956 to an apartment in Lincoln, where he continued to reside until his death.   Mr. Schlentz is survived by a daughter, Mrs. C. L. ( Lillian ) Crawford of Boca Raton, Fla.; a son, LeRoy of Lincoln; a sister, Mrs. Philip Ley of David City; three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  Preceding him in death were his wife, Josephine; a daughter, Mrs. Rosa C. May; five sisters, Mmes. John Speicher, Mary Schmit, Charlie Hastert, J. J. Reisdorff, and Harry Schmitt; and two brothers, John and Bernard.

Reprinted from The Banner-Press, David City, NE on May 15, 1985

Agnes Schmit Services Held in California and Bellwood Cemetery

Funeral services for Agnes Margaret Schmit, 82, of Claremont, Calif., were held Saturday, May 10, from Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church at Claremont with the Rev. Norman Supancheck officiating. Mrs. Schmit died May 8 following a lengthy illness.   Pallbearers were grandsons, Mark, Tom and Brian Morrissey, Barry and Glenn Schmit and a grandson-in-law, Bill Garay.  Graveside services were conducted Tuesday morning, May 13, at St. Mary's and St. Peter's Cemetery, Bellwood, with Rev. Gerald Vap officiating. Pallbearers were Gene Supancheck, William Gilmore, Dave Schmit, Tony Hiller, Leon Phillips and Melvin Janicek.  Agnes Margaret, the daughter of Nicholas P. and Anna (Meysenburg) Phillips, was born July 10, 1903, near Bellwood, where she attended St. Mary's School.  On January 25, 1927 she was married to George N. Schmit at Presentation Catholic Church. Two children were born to this union. She and her husband farmed in the valley until Sept. 28, 1936, when George died following a brief illness.   She remained on the farm until 1942 when she and the children moved to David City.   She was employed at J. C. Penney and Schweser Store and the Butler County ASCS office, and was an active member of St. Mary's Parish. In 1962 she moved to Santa Ana, Calif., and more recently lived in Claremont, Calif.  One of her lifelong pleasures was playing the piano.  Out-of-state relatives attending the graveside services were Mr. and Mrs. Ken Schmit of Claremont, Calif., Mrs. John Morrissey of Adelanto, Calif., Agnes Phillips of Pine Bluffs, Wyo., and Gerald Phillips of Englewood, Colo.   Survivors include one son Ken of Claremont, Calif., a daughter, Mrs. John (Marilyn) Morrissey of Adelanto, Calif., one brother, Leonard J. Phillips of David City, 11 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her husband, George, and three brothers, George and Al Phillips of Pine Bluffs, Wyo., and Wilfrid Phillips of David City.

Reprinted from the Butler County Press, David City, NE, abt. 25 Mar 1921

Following illness of four days with double pneumonia, Cornelius Schmit, 61 years old, passed away at his home six miles southwest of Bellwood Monday evening, March 9. Funeral services consisting of Solemn Requem High Mass were conducted by Rev. Father Reddy, assisted by Rev Father Moch and Rev. Father Cadek, in St Peter's Catholic church, Bellwood at 9:30 o'clock Thursday morning, March 12. The flower offerings were many and beautiful. The pallbearers were Neal Beckius, Elmer Beckius, Nick Beckius, Jr., Nick Demuth, Jr., Nick G. Meysenburg, Neal Morbach, Lee Schmit and Nick Schmit, Jr. Interment was in the Luxemburg cemetery.  Mr Schmit was born in Luxemburg, Germany, April 13, 1860. In 1880 he came to America, locating in Butler county and in 1887 he was married to Miss Mary Beckius. They had lived on their present farm since 1893. Besides his widow, Mr. Schmit leaves two sons and three daughters, namely, Mrs. Frank Nicholas, Mrs. Conrad Meister, Miss Anna Schmit, Nicholas Schmit and Peter Schmit, also two brothers and four sisters, Nicholas Schmit of Bellwood, John Schmit of McLain, Mrs John Morbach and Mrs. Henry Ronker of Bellwood, Ven. Sister Elenora of Phillipsville, Belguim and Ven. Sister Kathena of York and ten grandchildren. Mr. Schmit was a successful farmer and stockraiser, a good neighbor, a loving husband and the kindest of fathers. He is keenly missed. His death cast a gloom over the entire community.  Mr. Schmit was a faithful member of the Roman Catholic church.

Reprinted from the People's Banner, David City, NE. 7 July 1949.

Cornelius J. Schmit 1860-1949

Cornelius J. Schmit Succumbs To Heart Ailment

Bellwood, June 30: After illness of long duration Cornelius J. Schmit, 89, died June 23 in St. Mary's Hospital Columbus. He was a victim of heart disease.  He was born at Wahoo, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schmit and had lived near Bellwood since childhood.   His wife the former Martha Speicher of Columbus, to whom he was married April 23, 1907, died in May, 1941. He made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Elsie C. Schmit the last few years.  Besides Mrs. Schmit he leaves a daughter, Mrs. Viola Kamenski and son, Leo A. Schmit, who live in this vicinity a daughter, Mrs. Josephine Klein of Gresham; two sisters, Mrs. Margaret Medinger of David City and Sister Burgenia O. S. F. of Milwaukee; and three brothers, Peter of Hillsdale, Wyo. Jacob of Greeley, Col., and Henry of Monticello, Iowa.  All of his children and brothers and sisters were present at the funeral services held in St. Peter's Catholic church Saturday, June 25, at 9 a.m. Msgr. 0. B. O'Connor officiated and the church choir sang for the requiem high mass. Serving an pallbearers at the burial service in St. Peter's cemetery were Baltes Hornung, L. F. Kreizinger, J. W. Kreizinger, Louis Moell, C. J. Meister, and Frank Zimmer.  Henry S. Schmit was accompanied here from Iowa by Francis Schmit and Mrs. Robert Lawrence to attend the services.

Reprinted from The Butler County Press, David City, NE, January 18, 1957

Elizabeth Agnes (Steiner) Schmit 1869-1957

Funeral Services for Elizabeth Schmit, 88, conducted Saturday.

Funeral services for Elizabeth Agnes Schmit, 88, were held on Jan. 12 at 9:30 a.m. in St Mary's Catholic Church in David City. Msgr. Alphonse Lisko officiated at the Requiem Mass and the church choir sang. Rosary was recited at 7:30 Friday evening at the Knott Funeral Home, Serving as pallbearers were Lawrence Puetz, Gene Schmit, Gerald Janicek, Dick Michael, Edward Michael and Melvin Janicek. Burial was in St. Mary's and St. Peter's Cemetery on the valley.  Mrs. Schmit died at the David City Hospital on Jan. 9. Born on Jan. 2, 1869, at Cascade, Ia., she was the daughter of Nicholas and Helena (Kramer) Steiner, In Presentation Church, Bellwood on Feb. 7, 1888, she became the bride of Nicholas Schmit. Ten children were born to them. Six of them four daughters and two sons, survive her and were present for the services, Mrs. Nick (Elizabeth) Puetz, of David City; Mrs. Leo (Laura) Janicek of Bellwood; Mrs. Don Decker of Cedar Falls, Ia.; Mrs. Ed (Anna) Michael of Lincoln; John of Watertown, S. D.; and Peter of Bellwood.  Other survivors include a brother, Frank Steiner, and a sister. Mrs. Kate Homan, both of David City.   She was preceded in death by her husband in 1937; sons, George in 1936 and Leo in 1954; and one son and one daughter in infancy.  Mrs. Schmit came to Nebraska at the age of two and had made her life here since. She was a member of St. Mary's Church and of the Alter  Society.  Relatives and friends coming from away for the funeral were from Randolph, Atkinson, Fremont, Lincoln, Omaha, Crete, McLean, Wausa, Harrington and San Francisco, Calif.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 9 Jan 1997.

Elsie Schmit 1908-1996

Elsie Catherine Schmit, 88, of Bellwood died Friday Dec. 27, 1996 at David Place in David City.  Mrs. Schmit was born July 20, 1908 near Bellwood to Cornelius and Martha (Speicher) Schmit. She attended David City High School. On Sept. 30, 1940,  she married Leo C. "Shorty" Schmit at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood.   She was a housewife and lived all her life on the home place except for the last two and one half years at David Place.  She was a member of the Church, a former member of the P.C.C.W., the W.T.X. and the American Legion Auxiliary.  Survivors include four sons, Robert L. and Edward J. both of Bellwood, David W. of David City and Keith J. of Rising City; two daughters, Carol A. Danaher of Broomfield, Colo. And Wilma J. Heng of Dunbar, one stepdaughter, Delores Kreizinger of David City, two sisters Viola Kamanski of Red Oak, Iowa and Josephine Klein of Seward, 24 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband in 1954, one brother, Leo A. Schmit, one stepson Laverne Schmit in 1943, two step great-grandchildren, Michael and Jill Kreizinger in 1982 and one great granddaughter, Stephanie Culbert.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE 22 Feb 1962.

Funeral Services Held Tuesday For Eugene Schmit, 33, Bellwood

Eugene G. Schmit, 33, of Bellwood died Saturday morning, Feb 17, at his home in Bellwood following a heart attack. He had been hospitalized during the past two weeks with a heart condition.  Funeral services were conducted Tuesday morning, Feb. 20, from St. Peter's Catholic Church in Bellwood with the Rev. G. C. Messman officiating. Music was by the church choir.   Military rites were conducted at graveside by the American Legion.   Pallbearers were Joe and Henry Romshek, Norville Augustine, Charles Brandenburgh, Gerald Janicek and Robert Baer. Burial was in Bellwood Catholic Cemetery Mr. Schmit was born Dec 11, 1928 at Bellwood. He was graduated from Marietta High School in 1946 and served in the armed forces including duty in France prior to beginning his employment at Columbus Hydraulics five years ago.  He was a member of the American Legion, the Bellwood Volunteer Fire Dept., Tihen Council of the Knights of Columbus at David City and St. Peter's Church.  On Oct. 14, 1961, he was married to Kathryn Romshek, who survives him along with his father and step-mother, Mr. And Mrs. Peter J. Schmit, two brothers, Donald of Fremont and Orville of Plattsmouth, and two sisters, Mrs. Gene (Dorothy) Moyer and Mrs. Dean (Lorene) Kallenbach, both of Bellwood; three step-brothers, Bill and Laverne Kozisek of David City and Gene Kozisek of Schuyler and one step-sister, Mrs. Roger Bredahl of St. Albans. W. Va.  Preceding him in death was his mother on March 17, 1953.

Reprinted from The People's Banner, David City, Nebraska in October 1936

George Nicholas Schmit 1902-1936

DEATH OF GEO. SCHMIT - HE PASSES AWAY MONDAY

Funeral Services Were Held Wednesday Morning, Sept. 30.

After illness of but three days, George Schmit, respected resident of Butler County all of his life, passed away at 6:35 o'clock Monday morning, Sept 28, at the David City Hospital from complications following a surgical operation.  George Nicholas Schmit was born at Bellwood December 27, 1901, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Nick Schmit and at time of his death was in his 35th year. He followed the occupation of farming. He was married on January 25, 1927, to Miss Agnes Phillips, who survives with their two children, one daughter, Marilyn, eight years of age, and one son, Kenneth, 4+ years of age.  Mr. Schmit also leaves his parents, Mr. and Mr. Nick Schmit of David City, four sisters, Mrs. Nick Puetz, Mrs. E. M. Michael, Mrs. Leo Janicek and Mrs. Donald Decker, and three brothers, Peter J. Schmit, Leo C. Schmit and John A. Schmit Mr. Schmit was a young man of many fine qualities of character, a devoted husband, father, son and brother and had a host of friends who mourn his passing Funeral services were held at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Luxemburg, on Wednesday morning, Sept. 30, at 9:30 o'clock. The pastor, Rev. John F. Ekeler, conducted the services. Music was by the church choir, with Sister Virgil at the organ. The pallbearers were Francis Meysenburg, Leonard and Wilfred Phillips, Francis Steiner, John Ronkar and Lawrence Steiner. Burial was in Sts. Mary's and Peter's cemetery, Luxemburg.  Coming from elsewhere to attend the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Al Phillips and Mr. and Mrs. George Phillips of Pine Bluffs, Wyo., Mr. and Mrs. Donald Decker of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Mrs.  John Schmit, Neal Schmit, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Schmit and Mrs. Nick Olinger of Osmond, Mrs. Nick Colling, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Colling. Jr., Mr. and Mrs. John Kelsch, John Meyers, and Mr. and Mrs. Herman Nordhous of Randolph, Mrs. Mary Schmit and daughter, Anna, Mike Besch and Mrs. And Mrs. Adoph Janicek of Columbus, Mrs. Joe Delaney of Fullerton, Mr. and Mrs.  John Puetz and Mr. and Mrs. Harold Meysenburg of Primrose and William and John Markus and William Benfeldt of Kearney.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, May 1994

Gertrude Schmit, 96, of Bellwood, died May 8, l994 at St. Joseph's Villa.

Services for Mrs. Schmit were conducted Wednesday morning, May 8, from St. Peters Catholic Church in Bellwood with Father David Hintz celebrating the Mass of Christian Burial. Ruth Cockson was the organist.  Pallbearers were Robert Michael, Melvin Janicek, Robert Schmit, Gerald Janicek, Keith Schmit and Donald Schmit. Burial was in St. Peters Cemetery at Bellwood.  Relatives from Minnesota and neighboring towns of Bellwood attended the services.  Gertrude Schmit, the daughter of Peter and Christina (Sand) Michael, was born July 30, 1897, at Walker, Iowa. She attended school to the eighth grade and business college where she studied bookkeeping.  She was married to Jack Schmit at Bellwood on Nov. 4, 1937. He died Aug.18, 1972.  She lived in Watertown, S.D. from the time of her marriage until Mr. Schmit retired and they moved to Bellwood in 1962. She lived at St Joseph's Villa since 1979.  She was a bookkeeper/clerk.   She was a member of St. Peter's Church, St. Peter's Altar Society and Widows Club, both of Bellwood.  Survivors include nephews and nieces.  Her parents preceded her in death.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 26 Dec 1974.

Services Held Monday For Harold Schmit

A rural Bellwood resident, Harold Lee Schmit, died Friday, Dec. 20, at his home.   Funeral services were held on Monday morning, Dec. 23, from St Joseph's Church near Bellwood.  The son of Pete and Hattie (Janicek) Schmit, he was born April 28, 1934, at Rising City. He attended Bellwood District 36 School and Kramer High School in Columbus.  He was married Jan. 24, 1957, to Betty Neyens, who survives along with a son, Jeff; two daughters, Gina and Janet; his father; a brother, Gerald, all of the Bellwood area and a sister, Mrs. Harold Nitz of Norfolk.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 31 Aug 1972.

SERVICES HELD FOR JOHN A. SCHMIT (1892-1972)

Funeral services for John A. Schmit, 80, were conducted Monday morning, Aug.21, from St. Peter's Catholic Church, Bellwood, with Father G. C. Messman officiating. Mr. Schmit died Friday, Aug.18, at the David City Hospital following a three week illness.  Mrs. A. C. Kosch was organist. Members of the Knights of Columbus attended the services in a body. Pallbearers were nephews, Patrick Falvey, Melvin Janicek, Richard Michael, Lawrence Puetz, Edward Schmit and Orville Schmit.  Burial was in St. Peter's and St. Mary's Cemetery at Bellwood.  Relatives coming from a distance to attend the services were from Watertown, S.D.. Morris, Minn., Emmetsburg and Jesup, Iowa, San Francisco, Calif., and Osmond and Randolph.  John A. Schmit, the son of Nicholas A. and Elizabeth (Steiner) Schmit, was born Aug. 16, 1892, near Marietta. He attended the Marietta School.   On Nov. 4, 1937, he was married at Watertown, S.D., to Gertrude Michael.  With the exception of 21 years spent in the Watertown area, where he was employed by a farm implement company until his retirement in 1961, his life was 'spent in' the David City and Bellwood areas.  He was a charter member (58 years of membership) of Tihen Council of the Knights of Columbus.  He was the grandson of pioneers who homesteaded in the valley area near Bellwood in 1871. His great-grandmother, born in 1799, is buried in the same cemetery as he.  Two brothers, Leo and George, and a sister, Elizabeth, preceded him in death.  He is survived by his wife, Gertrude; a brother, Peter J. Schmit of David City; three sisters, Mrs. E. M. (Ann) Michael and Mrs. Leo (Laura) Janicek of Bellwood, and Mrs. Don (Eleanora) Decker of Jesup, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews.

Reprinted from The People's Banner, David City, Nebraska in 21 Jan 1943.

LaVerne Nicholas Schmit 1921-1943

KILLED IN ACTION

Mr. and Mrs. Leo Schmit of Bellwood, received word from the United States War Department on January 14th stating that their son, LaVerne Nicholas Schmit, Aviation Machinist's Mate Second Class, U. S. N., was killed in a plane crash during training flight on January 10th. No information as to disposition of remains has been received.   La Verne Nicholas Schmit, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leo C. Schmit was born on July 19, 1921 on a farm near Bellwood. He graduated from Bellwood high school with the class of 1939. On November 19, 1940 he enlisted in the navy and went into training at the Great Lakes NavaI Training Station.  Since late June he has been at Bermuda, B W I.   Besides his father, Mr. Leo C Schmit and Mrs. Schmit, he leaves a sister, Dolores, and one brother, Robert Lee.  He was preceded in death by his mother In October 1932.   There has been no further information received from the War Department at this time.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 27 May 1954.

Leo Cornelius Schmit 1894-1954

Leo C. Schmit, 60, Funeral Services Held

On May 18, 1954, funeral services were held at St. Peter's church in Bellwood for Leo C. Schmit, 60. He was a lifetime resident, of the community. Mr. Schmit died May 15 as the result of coronary thrombosis following an illness of about five years.  Rev. G. C. Messman officiated and music was by the church choir.  Serving as pallbearers were Leon Michael, Richard Michael, Laurence Puetz, Gerald Janicek, Eugene Schmit and Schmit. Burial was in St. Mary's and St. Peter's cemetery at Bellwood.  Members of Lavern N. Schmit American Legion Post attended the funeral in a body.  Mr. Schmit was born March 4, 1894, at Bellwood and was engaged in farming during his lifetime.  He enlisted in the armed forces during World War I and served from Aug. 15, 1918 to Feb. 3, 1919 as a Musician Third Class. FA.  In Nov. 1919, he was united in marriage to Susan Sand at Spencer Grove Ia. To this union two children, LaVerne and Mrs. Delores Kreizinger, were born. Mrs. Schmit died Oct. 29, 1931. On Sept. 30,1940, he was married to Miss Elsie C. Schmit at St. Peter's Church in Bellwood. Six children were born to this union, Robert Lee, Edward Joseph, Carol Ann, Wilma Jean, David and Keith.  He is survived by his wife, Elsie, seven children; his mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Schmit of David City; two brothers, J. A. Schmit of Watertown, S. D., and Peter J. Schmit of ,Bellwood; four sisters Mrs. Nick (Elizabeth) Puetz of Bellwood, Mrs. Ed. (Ann) Michael of Lincoln, Mrs. Leo (Laura) Janicek of Bellwood, and Mrs. Don (Eleanora) Decker of Cedar Falls, Ia. Preceding him in death were his father and one son, LaVerne, who was killed in action while in service Those attending the funeral from a distance were Mr. and Mrs. John A. Schmit of Watertown, S. D, Mrs. Don Decker of Cedar Falls, Ia., Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Michael and Mr. and Mrs. R. F. Michael of Lincoln: Leon Michael of Kalamazoo, Mich., Mr. and Mrs. Don Schmit of Fremont, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Klein of Cresham; Sr. M. Burginia of Milwaukee, Wis., Henry J Schmit of Monticello, Ia., Cyril J. Schmit of Bernard, Ia., John Ortner, Holyoke, Colo., Chancy White of Albion, Mrs. J V. Stukel, Mr. and Mrs. John Meyers, Mrs. John Kelsch, Mr. and Mrs. Mr. and Mrs. Nick Colling and Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Nordhues of Randolph, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Schmit of McLean, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Olinger of Wausau, Theodore Miller of Independence, Ia.; Mrs. Robert Michael of Stanley, la., Raymond Miller and Mrs. Harold Miller, of Walker, Ia., George and Carrie Medinger of Sedalia, Colo., Mr. and Mrs., H. J. Smith and Mrs. Marie Morbach of Omaha: and Evelyn Morbach of Amarillo, Tex.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 23 Dec 1954.

Mrs. Mary A. Schmit, 86, Dies At Home Here Saturday Morning

Mrs. Mary A. Schmit, 86, of David City died at her home here Saturday morning as the result of a heart attack. She had been In failing health for a number of years.   Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Clarence Reisdorff of York at St. Mary's Church here. Rev. John Prachar assisted and Rev. G. C. Messman of Bellwood was in the sanctuary. Music was by the church choir.  Serving as pallbearers were six nephews, Leroy Schlentz, John Speicher, Louis Hastert, Earl Reisdorff, Phillip Schlentz, and Phillip Ley. Burial was in St. Peter's and St. Mary's Cemetery on the Valley.  Those from away who attended the funeral included Mr. and Mrs. John Weidel, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Schmit, and Leland Schmit of Hebron; Mr. and Mrs. Fred Didier and son Bernard, Clarks; Mr. and Mrs. Joe Schmit, Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Nordhues of Randolph; Mrs. Nick Olinger of Wausa; Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Crawford of Mankato, Minn.; Leroy Schlentz of Lincoln; Mr. and Mrs. Bill Lux and Mrs. Marie Albright of Columbus; and Mr. and Mrs. Louis Hastert of Shelby.   Mary Schlentz, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Schlentz, was born May 13, 1868, in Iowa. The family moved to Butler county when she was two years of age.  She was married in February 1891, at Presentation Church on the Valley to Peter Schmit, who preceded her in death on Nov.25, 1910.  Survivors include a daughter Mrs. Rosa Didier; a brother, Peter Schlentz; and two sisters, Mrs. J. J. Reisdorff and Mrs. Susie Ley. Mrs. Schmit was a member of St Peter's Altar Society at Bellwood.

Reprinted from The Butler County Press, David City, NE, July 31, 1941

Mary (Beckius) Schmit 1868-1941

Passed away in Columbus early Saturday Morning.

Mrs. Cornelius Schmit, resident of Butler and Colfax counties for many years, who had resided in Columbus the past 15 years, died at St. Mary's hospital, Columbus, at 5:40 o'clock Saturday morning, July 26, at the age of 73 years. She suffered a broken hip in a fall April 27, death resulting from that injury and complications.  Funeral services were held in St. Bonaventure's Catholic church, Columbus, at 9 o'clock Tuesday morning, in charge of the astor, Rev. Colman Borgard.  Burial was in the Bellwood cemetery.   Mary Beckius, daughter of Nicholas and Catherine Beckius, was born August 9, 1868, at Mineral Point, Wis., and came to Nebraska at the age of 12 years, the family locating on a farm in Colfax county, later moving to Butler county. She was married to Cornelius Schmit in February 1887. Mr. and Mrs. Schmit made their home on a farm eight miles west of Bellwood.  After Mr. Schmit's death on March 9, 1925, Mrs. Schmit moved to Columbus.   Seven children, three sons and four daughters, were born to Mr. and Mrs. Schmit. A son, Cornelius and a daughter, Catherine, died in infancy. The surviving children are Nick C. and Peter C. of Rising City, Mrs. Frank W. Nicolas and Mrs. C. J. Meister of Bellwood and Miss Anna at home. There are 23 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  Also surviving Mrs. Schmit are four brothers, Nick, Peter and Matt Beckius of Bellwood and Neil Beckius of Schuyler, and five sisters, Mrs. Mike Meysenburg of David City, Mrs. Neil VandeVegt and Mrs. Herbert VandeVegt of Cedar Rapids and Misses Ruth and Adelaide Beckius of Schuyler.  Mrs. Schmit was a devout member of the Catholic church and had many friends.

Reprinted from the Butler County Press, David City, NE, February 15, 1937

Nicholas A. Schmit 1862-1937

Last Rites for Nicholas Schmit, Long-Time Resident

Funeral services for Nicholas Schmit, long-time resident of Butler county, who passed away at his home in North David City early Tuesday morning, Feb. 9, after illness of two weeks, were held at St. Mary's Catholic church, David City, at 9:30 o'clock Thursday morning. Feb.11, conducted by Rev. W. A. Murphy. Music was by St. Mary's choir. The pallbearers were Mike Besch, J. W. Demuth, L. R. Kreizinger, Mike Medinger, J. J. Reisdorff and P. N. Reisdorff. Burial was in St. Mary's & St. Peter's cemetery on the valley.  In attendance at the funeral from elsewhere were Rev. Father Mock and mother, Mrs. Mock, and sister, Mrs. McGrath, of Crete, Rev. Father Wageman of Cedar Bluffs, Fr. Hoffman of Manley, Mrs. John Schmit of Osmond, Mrs. Nick Colling, Herman Nordhaus and Al Sauser of Randolph, Nick Schmit of Atkinson, Mrs. Mary Schmit and daughter, Anne, Mike Besch and Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Janicek of Columbus and Mrs. Jake Ries and son Nick, of Scribner.  Mr. Schmit was in his 75th year. He was born at Canach. Luxemburg. October 23, 1862, a son of Nicholas and Katherine Schmit. He came to Butler county in 1882 and farmed east of Bellwood until moving to David City March 1, 1928. He was married February 7, 1888. to Elizabeth Steiner at St. Mary's church on the valley. To them were born ten children. five daughters and five sons, of whom one son and one daughter died in Infancy and a son, George, died September 28, 1936. The children who with their mother survive are Mrs. N. M. Puetz. Mrs. Leo Janicek, Leo C. Schmit and Peter J. Schmit of Bellwood, John Schmit and Mrs. E. M. Michael of David City and Mrs. Don Decker of Cedar Falls, Iowa. All were present at the funeral except Mrs. Decker. who was unable to attend on account of illness.  Besides his wife and children, Mr. Schmit leaves 26 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, also one sister, Mrs. Henry Ronkar of David City.  During his lifetime Mr. Schmit made many close friends by reason of his good qualities of character and was highly esteemed and respected by all who knew him. He was a devout member of the Catholic church and lived his daily life in accordance with its teachings, ever kind and devoted to his family. a good friend and neighbor and always willing to lend a helping hand when needed.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 4 February 1971.

Nicholas Cornelius Schmit 1890-1971

Nick C. Schmit Funeral Services at Columbus

Funeral services for Nick C. Schmit of Columbus were held Friday morning, Jan. 29, at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in Columbus. Mr. Schmit, 80, died Tuesday, Jan. 26, at St. Mary's Hospital in Columbus following and illness of several months duration.  Rev. Regis Watts and Rev. Gerald C. Messman officiated at the Solemn High Mass. St. Bonaventure choir furnished music.  Pallbearers were Steven Schmit, a grandson, and five nephews, George, Nicolas and Lawrence J., Paul, Jerome and Marion Meister. Burial was in Sts. Peter and Mary Cemetery at Bellwood.  Relatives from away attending services were from Omaha, Osmond, Randolph, Creighton, Lincoln, Cedar Bluffs, Fremont, Osceola, David City, Schuyler and Cedar Rapids and St. Joseph, Mich., and San Francisco, Calif.  Mr. Schmit, son of Cornelius and Mary (Beckius) Schmit, was born Aug. 13, 1890, at Bellwood, He attended Butler county schools and Fremont Normal College.  On Oct.20, 1926, he was married to Loretta Fohl at Bellwood. Three sons and four daughters were born to them. Mr. Schmit was engaged in farming and the couple lived at Rising City before moving to Columbus.  He was a member of St. Bonaventure Catholic Church and Holy Name Society and was a former member of the Knights of Columbus.  Surviving are his wife, Loretta, three sons, Dwaine J. of Rising City and Senator Loran and Harry of Bellwood, four daughters, Bernice Peck of St. Joseph, Mich., Marie and Cecelia of Omaha and Virgene Kayser of San Francisco, a brother, Pete C. Schmit of Columbus, two sisters, Anna Schmit and May Meister of Columbus and 25 grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by a sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Nicolas, and infant brother and sister, and a son-in-law, H. William Kayser.

Reprinted from the Banner-Press, David City, NE, 20 Oct 1977.

Pete C. Schmit Funeral Services Held Wednesday

A lifetime resident of Butler County, Pete C. Schmit, 81, Rt. 2, Columbus, died Sunday, Oct. 16, at St. Joseph's Villa after being in failing health for some time.  Funeral services for Mr. Schmit were conducted Wednesday morning from St. Joseph's Catholic Church near Bellwood with Father Paul J. Rutten officiating.  Burial was in St. Mary's Cemetery at Bellwood.  Pete C. Schmit, the son of Cornelius Schmit and Mary Beckuis, was born March 5, 1896, in Butler County. He was married on Feb. 15, 1922, at St. Peter's Church , Bellwood to Hattie Janicek.  He was engaged in farming until his retirement.

Reprinted from The People's Banner, David City, NE, 1 Dec 1910.

Death of Peter Schmit (1870-1910)

He died at his home near David City, Friday Nov. 25.  Peter Schmit, for 26 years a respected resident of this county, died at his home seven miles west of David City Friday night, Nov. 25, at 11 o'clock. Death was from Bright's disease. He had been in failing health for a year, but was confined to his bed four weeks.  The funeral services were held in St. Peter's Catholic church in Bellwood on Monday, Nov. 28 at 10a.m., and were   conducted by Rev. Father Lutz. The pallbearers were John Demuth, Peter Demuth, Louis Kreizinger, John Meysenburg, Nick Remakel and Frank Steiner. Interment was in Luxemburg cemetery.  Mr. Schmit was in his 41st year. He was born in Luxemburg, Germany, March 22, 1870, and came to the United States with his father 28 years ago, coming to this county. For nine years he made his home with his brother-in-law, John Morbach. In February, 1891, he was married to Miss Mary Schlentz.  They prospered and at the time of his death Mr. Schmit owned a well improved farm of 320 acres in Olive township. He was a good citizen and a successful farmer. He was a member of St. Peter's Catholic church in Bellwood. Mrs. Schmit and one daughter, Miss Rosa, survive him. In their bereavement they have the tender sympathy of a large circle of friends.

Banner-Press, David City, NE, May 1988

Peter Joseph Schmit 1900-1988

Services for Peter Joseph Schmit of David City were conducted Wednesday morning, May 4. Mr. Schmit, 88, died Monday, May 2, at the Butler County Hospital.  Msgr. A. J. Lisko celebrated the Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary's Church. Members of the Knights of Columbus attended in body.  Pallbearers were Ron Kallebach, Terry Rech, Steve Schmit, Dan Schmit, Carl Bredahl, Mike Kozisek, Pat Kozisek and Nolan Schmit. Burial was in St. Peters and St. Mary's Cemetery, Bellwood.   Relatives and friends from Arkansas, Missouri, and Iowa, and Fremont, Valley, Columbus, Seward, North Platte, Beatrice, Genoa, Omaha, Raymond, Grand Island, Dodge, Bruno, Abie, Bellwood, Lincoln, Wayne, Monroe and Malmo attended the services.  Peter J. Schmit, the son of Nicolas and Elizabeth (Steiner) Schmit, was born April 10, 1900, at Bellwood. He married Gertrude Sims on Sept. 1, 1925. Five children were born to this union. Mrs. Schmit died in 1958.  On Dec.30, 1961, he married Rose Husak Kozisek.   He lived in the Bellwood and David City areas all of his life. He was a farmer, worked at Columbus Hydraulics, Bellwood Elevator and the David City Farmers Coop. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Holy Name Society, and had served on the Bellwood School Board and the Farmers Union Board. He was a member of the Catholic Church.   Survivors include his wife, Rose of David City; two sons, Don Schmit of Fremont and Orville Schmit of Columbus; two daughters, Mrs. Gene (Dorothy) Moyer and Mrs. Dean (Lorene) Kallenbach of Bellwood; four stepchildren, Mrs. Roger (Maxine) Bredahl of Columbus, LaVerne Kozisek and Bill Kozisek of David City and Gene Kozisek of Garden City, Mo.; 34 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his first wife; parents; a son, Gene, who died in 1962; four brothers and five sisters; and four step grandchildren.

Reprinted from the Peoples Banner, David City, NE, 21 February 1946.

Susan Schmit 1876-1946

BELLWOOD WOMAN DIED FEBRUARY 16

Bellwood - Miss Susan Schmit, lifetime resident of Butler county and Bellwood, died about 3 p.m. Saturday,. Feb. 16, at St. Mary's hospital, Columbus, following illness of a few days.  She was in her 70th year, having been born in Saunders county April 20, 1876, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry J. Schmit. She was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church, Bellwood.  Surviving Miss Schmit are two sisters, Sister Brugenia of Milwaukee, Wis. and Mrs. Margaret Medinger of David City, and four brothers, C. J. and Pete Schmit of Bellwood, Henry Schmit of Monticello, Iowa, and Jake Schmit of Greeley, Colo. All were present at the funeral.  Funeral services were held at 9 a. m. Tuesday, Feb. 19, in St. Peter's church, with Rev. Father Daniel E. Cooper of St. Mary's Luxemburg church officiating. Music was by the church choir. The pallbearers were Frank Kreizinger Louis Moell, Pete Nicolas, Alfred Peck, Pete Demuth and Frank Zimmer. Burial was In the Luxemburg cemetery.  In attendance at the funeral from elsewhere were Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schmit of Monticello, Iowa, brother and sister-in-1aw of the deceased.