Milton Charles Schmiege Sr.

Milton Charles Schmiege, Sr., age 92, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 10, 2024, in Muskegon, Michigan. He was born on April 4, 1932, in Muskegon to Charles Frank Schmiege and Ruth Elizabeth (Botten) Schmiege, and remained a lifelong resident of the area.

Milton was a proud U.S. Navy veteran, having served his country with honor before returning to Muskegon. After his discharge in 1955, he pursued his education as a sheet metal apprentice, in that same year, he married Nancy Wiegand and together, they shared 47 years of marriage until Nancy's passing in 2002.

Milton worked tirelessly throughout his life, dedicating 42 years to his career in the building trades, where he took great pride in both his role as a skilled worker and his leadership as a supervisor. He was also known for his dedication to service, volunteering with the Red Cross as a CPR and First Aid Instructor. A devoted member of the Free Masons, Milton achieved the rank of 32nd Degree Mason, and he was a long-time driver for the Shriner’s Hospital for Children.

After retiring, Milton found joy in his home workshop, where he spent countless hours wood working, welding, fixing things, and passing on his knowledge and advice to his son and grandchildren. He was especially proud of his family, often sharing his wisdom and love with his grandchildren, whom he adored. Milton's passion for life extended to his love of dancing, and he cherished his time spent with his special friend and dance partner, Ines Gasaway.

Milton is survived by his son, Chip(Jeanine) Schmiege; grandchildren, Renee (Kyle) Juusola, C.J. (Jen) Schmiege, Tricia Schmiege (Jake Grabowski) and Tim (Brooklynn) Schmiege; great-grandchildren, Kaiden, Michelle, and Baby Wren Schmiege; his brother, Don Schmiege; as well as his dear and loving friend, Ines Gasaway.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ruth Schmiege, his beloved wife, Nancy Schmiege, his brother, Marvin Schmiege, his sister, Val (Don) Roesler and his sister-in-law Maxine Schmiege.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at Ever Rest Funeral Home & Chapel, beginning at 3:00 p.m. with a one-hour visitation prior to the service. Pastor Carlos Ramos will officiate, and military honors will follow the service. A luncheon will be provided for family and friends to continue sharing memories of Milton.

Milton's legacy of hard work, dedication to family, and service to others will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Red Cross or the Shriner’s Hospital for Children in his memory.