Sadly our beloved son, brother, uncle, great uncle, nephew and friend, Douglas Charles Schmitz, had his hunting and fishing seasons cut tragically short on January 17, 2017. Doug was born March 21st, 1958, to Dennis C. Schmitz and Regina D. Schmitz (Warnke) in Kirkland, WA.

He spent his early years growing up in Gregory, SD. His family made the much loved move to Custer, in the beautiful Black Hills, in 1970. He attended school in Custer & graduated in 1976. After a short foray to the west coast, Doug began his lifelong career with BNSF. His co-workers were his second family. His love of everything outdoors is known far & wide. A was a big man with a bigger heart, never afraid of a challenge. Our hearts are broken, but are better for knowing him. He will be sorely missed, until we meet our eternal reward in heaven.

Douglas is survived by loving parents, Dennis & Regina Schmitz; sister, Nancy
(Michael) Goodwin; two nieces, Jennifer Graf (Dustin) and Michelle Fischer (Cory); great niece, Hailee Graf and great nephews, Logan & Lane Graf; Tyler & Jackson Trant & Lincoln Fischer; also many aunts, uncles, cousins, his work family and friends.

Doug is preceded in death by his grandparents and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Wake services will be held 7:00 p.m., Sunday, January 22, 2017, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Custer.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 23, 2017, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Custer.