Joseph Fredrick ‘Fritz’ Schmitt, 65, passed peacefully at his home after battling brain cancer.

Fritz was born June 5th, 1960 in Dodge City, Kan. to Fred and Kay Schmitt. He was raised in Offerle and Great Bend Kan. After graduating high school in Great Bend he attended and graduated from Colby College, during which time he worked as “John McKay” the radio DJ at KHOK station. He then moved to Springfield Mo. to pursue a life in ministry with the Assemblies of God. In Springfield, he felt called into the medical field, and attended Burge School of Nursing. There he met his wife Lora and they married in 1991. Fritz and Lora graduated together in 1992. He served the community as a CCU/MICU nurse for 33 years.

Fritz had a lifelong passion for learning, and loved research and debate. He was deeply devoted to the Lord, his family, and his friends. He was well known for his love of dad jokes, pranks, coffee, and Christmas music.

He was preceded in death by his father Fred Schmitt; his sister Renee Schmitt; and his wife Lora Schmitt. He is survived by his children Hannah and Micah; his mother Kay; and siblings Brad and Rhonda.

Graveside Services were held on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026 at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens 3506 N. National in Springfield, Mo. Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Herman H Lohmeyer Funeral Home

500 E. Walnut Street

Springfield, MO 65806

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, Jan. 20, 2026