Lance Schmitt

Lance E. Schmitt, 48, of Onalaska, WI died March 4, 2020 at University Hospital in Madison, WI from complications following heart surgery performed at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, WI. Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, March 11 at 5 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Parish, Onalaska, WI.

A visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 10 at The Gathering, 133 Mason Street in Onalaska, WI. Visitation will also be from 4 p.m. until the time of Mass Wednesday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family are preferred. Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family.

Lance was born March 9, 1971 to Dean and Lorraine Schmitt of Fountain City, WI. He grew up in Onalaska and graduated from Aquinas High School where he was a State Champion wrestler. In 2018, he was awarded the Aquinas Blugold Wrestling Legacy Award.

October 14, 2006, he married Sara Mathis of Waukon in La Crosse, WI. Lance owned Schmitt Builders in Onalaska. He was an accomplished carpenter and worked with his brother, Lee. His passions were his children, enjoying mornings and getting them ready for school and on the bus. He also enjoyed trips up north to the Wessleys, trout fishing, taking walks with Sara and Coco, playing cards with friends and family, and cruising backroads.

Everybody loved Lance for his playful pranks, his strong, helping hands and his easy-going nature. He was a frequent visitor to local watering holes and made many friends during his adventures. Lance will be greatly missed.

Lance is survived by his wife, Sara (Mathis); his children, Wessley and Avery Schmitt, both at home; his sister, Lisa, and brother, Lee (Erin) Schmitt, all of Onalaska; his father- and mother-in-law, Daniel and Kathy Mathis of Waukon; his sister-in-law, Jennifer (Dwayne) Durham of Centerville; his brother-in-law, Eric Mathis of Marion; his nephews Adam, Carson and Conner; his niece, Maggie; dear friends, Scott (Erin) Wessley and Todd (Amy) English; and many other relatives, neighbors and friends. Lance’s family would also like to acknowledge the kindness and support from Renee Thies. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Lorraine Schmitt.

Consistent with Lance’s caring spirit and willingness to help others, he has become a hero to many through organ donation.