Raymond Francis Schmitz was born in Austin, MN, on February 6, 1939 to Raymond Godfrey Schmitz and Elizabeth Wendell. He went to Parochial Schools in Austin, graduating from Pacelli High School in 1956.
He attended Minnesota State University in Mankato, enlisted in the Navy after graduating, serving on an aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean Sea for four years.
He received a law degree (JD) from the University of Minnesota in 1970.
He subsequently was hired as an Assistant County Attorney for Olmsted County. Then later was elected County Attorney for 6 terms.
After serving the county for 36 years he retired in 2006.
He married Gael Entrikin in 1988. She preceded him in death in 2022.
They enjoyed many winter vacations in the balmy climes of the Caribbean.
When they had a longer vacation time, and after they both retired, they traveled to many parts of the world including most of Europe, North Africa and the American West.
Both before and especially after his retirement Ray was active in local politics, environmental issues, and social concerns including serving on the boards of the Environmental Learning Center in Lansboro, Bluff Country Coop, where he was instrumental in moving the store to its new building. The Post Bulletin has a recent article that enumerates his many activities.
In addition to his wife, Gael, Ray was predeceased by his parents and a brother Richard Schmitz. He is survived by his brother Fr. Don J. Schmitz, his sister-in-law Janice (Cotter) Schmitz, nephews and great nieces.
He will be interred in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, Preston, MN.
“May he rest in peace. His good deeds go before him.”
Memories and condolences of Raymond may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
God bless the family of Ray, he will be deeply missed. Rest in peace, my friend…