John Schermitzler, age 73, of Neillsville, WI died Thursday, December 27, 2018 at his residence following a short battle with cancer.

John Michael Schermitzler was born on May 26, 1945 in Kaukauna, WI the son of Orvis and Carolyn (Babcock) Schermitzler. He graduated from Kaukauna High School and then attended UW- Oshkosh and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education. John then taught English and was the Forensics coach for 10 years at Granton High School before beginning his career in Neillsville, where he taught and coached Forensics for 25 years. During this time he also bartended at Fannies Supper Club and The White Horse Inn, where he loved telling jokes and visiting with people. John also loved cooking and playing games. He was united in marriage to Gayle Ann Stannard on July 29, 1973. John retired from teaching in 2003. He was a member of the United Church of Christ in Neillsville.

He is survived by his wife, Gayle, two daughters, Robin (Bob) Mullally of Marshfield, WI and Lisa Schermitzler of Neillsville, eight grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, a sister, Nancy Schneider of Appleton, WI, and a brother, Bill (Marilyn) Schermitzler of Uma, AZ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Bobby Schermitzler and a brother-in-law, Ken Schneider.

A Memorial Service for John will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 5, 2018 at the United Church of Christ in Neillsville. Pastor Jacoba Koppert will officiate. Music will be provided by Karen Mohr, organist and Joe Anderson, soloist. Visitation will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday at the United Church of Christ.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting John’s family with Funeral arrangements.