Richard Schmal

Rich was born the eldest child of Edward Schmal and Katie O’Hara in 1942 in Chicago, Illinois. After graduating from the University of Illinois, he joined the US Air Force, earning the rank of Captain, and was stationed in Bitburg, Germany which set him on a path that influenced the rest of his life. This experience began his lifelong love of travel and making new friends wherever he went. This is where he met Jean Rauch, an American teacher at the Department of Defense Overseas Schools who would become his wife and life-long travel partner for the next 56 years. They particularly loved London and Scotland where they enjoyed golf and iconic pubs. His friendship with the Chief Judge Advocate USAF in Bitburg inspired him to pursue a career in law. After earning a JD at Gonzaga Law School, he practiced law in Maricopa County for 45 years. Rich’s friends and extended family meant the world to him. He particularly valued his friendships with people whose life experiences were different than his own.

He is survived by his wife Jean Schmal, his brother Ed (Miki) Schmal of Aurora CO, and sister Anne (Rich) Stobart of North Barrington, IL and numerous nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital or your favorite charity.