Fritz Schmidbauer passed away peacefully (age 98), surrounded by his family, on April 28, 2023. Fritz was born in Porndorf, Germany in 1925 and emigrated to the USA with his mother and siblings when he was 6 months old. He spent his childhood in New Haven, Connecticut. He joined the Navy at 17 and saw combat in the Pacific Theater of WWII as a Machinist Mate Second Grade aboard the USS Anzio. He married his wife Ellie in 1947. Together they made their home in Mesa, AZ where they spent most of their 76 years of marriage. Fritz and Ellie were active members of Christ the King Catholic Church in Mesa, AZ. Fritz worked hard for Mountain Bell as a lineman for 38 years. After retirement, he added to his storied work ethic by working for his son Erich as a plumber. In 2021, Fritz was recognized for his naval service and went to Washington, D.C. with Honor Flight Arizona accompanied by his two sons. He will be remembered always as a devoted husband, a loving father, and proud grandfather.
He is survived by his beloved wife Ellie, his sons Erich Schmidbauer (wife Janet) and Andy Schmidbauer (wife Joy), his daughters Lynda Schmidbauer (husband Rick), Kathy Stinocher (wife LeAnn), and Ellie Murphy-Racey (husband Patrick), his 11 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother and sister.
The visitation will be held at Brophy Chapel at 4701 N. Central Ave., Phx, on Tuesday, May 2nd at 3:30pm. To be followed by a recitation of the rosary at 4:00pm and funeral Mass at 4:30pm. A private burial service will be held later in the week. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in honor of Fritz, to Saint Michael Indian School in St. Michaels, Arizona (stmichaelindianschool.org).
Kristi Boruff
Fritz Schmidbauer was a wonderful man. He was humble and kind. I’m so thankful that I had the opportunity to get to know him through my years of friendship with his daughter, Ellie. He has left an amazing legacy. The Schmidbauer family will be in my thoughts and prayers. He will certainly be missed.
Love,
Kristi Boruff
Amanda Fitch
Sending my love and prayers to all of the family.
LJeane Fairbourn
Dear Schmidbauer Family,
We were sorry to learn of the death of Mr. Schmidbauer. The Fairbourn family would like to sent hugs and prayers your way.
Surround your hearts with all of your fond memories, no one can ever take those away.
God bless you. May he rest in the arm’s of Our Lord.
Greg, L’Jeane, Will and Charlie
Brenda & Wayne Potter
Many memories from growing up taking camping trips with the Schmidbauer’s who have been my parent’s best friends for over 71 years. Condolences and prayers for his family. Very special people in many ways.
Brenda & Wayne Potter
Fritz and his wife were my parent’s best friends for over 70 years. Our family is grieving with you and rely on the faith we shared to help through his loss, believing he is at peace with God.
Kat Sakovich
Sending thoughts of comfort and hope that you and your family find strength to get through the difficult time.