LeRoy ‘Butch’ Schmeltzer

He was born November 5, 1935, in Marquette, a son of the late Raymond and Gladys (LaForest) Schmeltzer and was a lifelong area resident.

Butch served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict.

He worked as a press man in offset and letter press for the Mining Journal for more than 30 years prior to his retirement.

Butch was a life member of both Marquette Elks Lodge #405 and American Legion Post #44 and a former life member of the DAV.

His interests included hunting, fishing, traveling and trips to the casino.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara J. (Purton) Schmeltzer of Marquette; sons, Dean (Pamela) Schmeltzer of Marquette and Brian (Patty) Schmeltzer of Marquette; grandchildren, Randi (Ryan) Schmeltzer Skrzypczynski and Ryan (Deidre) Schmeltzer; great-grandchildren, Ivy & Penny Schmeltzer and Cole Skyzypczynski; brother, Gary (Carol) Schmeltzer of Marquette; and several nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Dale Schmeltzer; siblings, Marie Paquette and Richard Schmeltzer.

A private graveside service will be held in Park Cemetery.

Butch’s family would like to thank the staffs of Michigan Veterans Homes DJ Jacobetti and Lake Superior Hospice for going above and beyond in the care of their father.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family where memories may be shared at canalefuneral.com