Randy Lee Schmitz, 67, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, at his home outside of Sparta, Wisconsin. Born on November 23, 1957, in Sparta, Wisconsin, Randy was the son of Leroy and Barbara (Alderman) Schmitz.
In June of 1999, he married his true love, Carol (Graves) and together they had fun going on many memorable road trips.
Randy was a hard worker and very proud to be a lifelong farmer. He was also a gifted mechanic and worked at Gilbertson Chevrolet in Melrose, WI for several years as an auto mechanic before going to work for Nordstrom Construction of Melrose for 19 years, in ag machinery repair.
Beyond his work, Randy was a man of many interests, He enjoyed fishing, classic cars of which he owned several, snowmobiling and riding his motorcycles.
Perhaps one of the greatest joys in Randy’s life was his pets. Over the years, he raised quite a few animals, each one cherished and adored, especially his little Brussels Griffon dog, Gidget, who he called “my best friend.” A highlight of Randy’s life was making it to the Road America Racetrack in Elkhart Lake, WI. It was an experience that summed up his love for cars and motorcycles.
Randy is survived by his wife Carol; her sons, Ryan (Samantha) Hoover of St. Paul, Mark Hoover of Rochester, and stepdaughter, Laura (Travis) Lorenz of Winona; step-grandchildren, Evie Lorenz (Aiden), Faith Lorenz (Cody), Michael Hoover and Stella Hoover;brothers-in-law, Jack (Linda) Graves of Red Win, MN, and Chris (Kerry) Graves of Elba, MN; sisters-in-law, Betty Jo (Tony) Rico, and Robin Graves both of Elba, MN; along with aunts and numerous cousins.
Randy was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister Kay.
Randy’s family will honor his life in a private funeral service and his burial will take place at the Angelo Cemetery in Angelo, Wisconsin, where he will rest among the rolling hills and open skies that he so dearly loved.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Sparta, WI is asssisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneral.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
