Leo Arnold Schmauch, 95
Leo Arnold Schmauch, 95
Leo Arnold Schmauch, 95, a longtime Libby resident, peacefully passed away on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2014, at the Libby Care Center.
Leo was born May 18, 1919, in Kalispell to Fred and Mida (Nordome) Schmauch, the second of three sons. He grew up and attended the Kalispell Public Schools. Leo married Ada Farris in Kalispell in 1943, and in 1944, he entered the United States Navy, serving in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Following his discharge from the service in 1946, Leo and Ada moved to Libby where Leo worked for the J. Neils Lumber Company, and the subsequent owners of that company, until his retirement. During his years working for J. Neils, Leo was a first class crane operator for logging operations. Upon his retirement in 1981, Leo devoted much of his time to family and friends. He enjoyed working on and restoring John Deere tractors, as well as hunting and fishing.
Leo was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Mida; his brothers, Norman and Jim; and his wife, Ada.
Leo is survived by sons Fred (Mikel) of Salt Lake City, and Mike (Nancy) of Missoula; daughter Sallie (Mickey) of Choteau; seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
Leo wanted to give a special thanks to his “little angel,” granddaughter Sarah, who was by his side with comfort and care, tending to his needs with love. Leo also wanted to thank his longtime friend and companion, Hazel Halsey, with whom he enjoyed so many wonderful years and occasions.
The family wishes to thank all those who visited Leo frequently and to thank the nurses and staff at the Libby Care Center for their comfort and compassion.
Services for Leo will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home Chapel, 422 W. Second Street, in Libby, followed by military honors at the City of Libby Cemetery. Interment will be at Glacier Memorial Gardens in Kalispell. Visitation will be from 1 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 24, at Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home.
Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.