 | Bruce "Buzz" Schommer April 1, 1933 ~ October 5, 2024 91 Years Old
Our Dad: Buzz, Buzzy, Pop, Daddy-O, Grampa, Gramps, Great-Grampa Buzz Lightyear, left his earthly home on October 5,2024 to meet his “Amazing Grace” in heaven. He was born April 1, 1933, a proud “April Fool’s” baby, to Lambert and Maybelle (Rohm) Schommer.
Buzz grew up on the “west side” of Little Chute, attending both St. John’s grade and high schools, graduating in 1951. On July 7, 1955, he married Grace Jansen, an “east sider” who became his bride of 64 years.
A Marquette University Graduate, Buzz worked several jobs before purchasing Essential Products Corporation-EZ Glide from his father in 1977. The family business grew and was passed onto his sons who are now passing it onto theirs.
Buzz proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean Conflict, stationed in Austria. He became a member of the American Legion Post #258 in Little Chute.
A busy, fun-loving guy, Buzz belonged to the “Skulls” gang, a scuba diving club, snowmobile, and fishing groups; Fox Valley Golf Club; and taught his kids how to hunt & fish along with many other activities. He holds the honor of being an inductee of the St John’s Athletic Association Hall of Fame.
Buzz and Grace were blessed to have been able to build their forever home on Legend Lake in Keshena. Since 1978 the family has spent countless “Happy Hours” there and in 1991they moved there permanently, lovingly welcoming family, friends and fun. That legacy continues.
A faithful man, Buzz is a lifelong member of St. John Nepomucene and belonged to St. Michael’s parish in Keshena before returning to the valley.
Together Buzz & Grace raised 5 children which led to 18 grandchildren and 26.5 great-grandchildren to date.
Scott and Kathii Schommer and their family: David & Katie Schommer, Tara & Chris DePrey, Peter & Tess Schommer, Joe Schommer (Special friend Irving)
Judd and Christy Schommer and their family: Amie & Joe Fischer, Matt & Megan Schommer, Kayla & Jake Locy, Rhea Schommer (Special friend Adam)
Todd and Sue Schommer and their family: Becky & Joe Marquardt, Stuart Schommer, Kurt & Jacqueline Schommer, Lisa Schommer
Ann and Bob Olson and their family: Jill & Marco Tellez, Jackson & Kayla Olson, Conrad Olson, Brenna Olson
Nedd and Jill Schommer and their family: Samuel Schommer (fiancé Caitlin), Max & Becca Schommer
Buzz is further survived by a sister-in-law Joyce Anderson, many dear nieces and nephews, especially Rick VanderWyst.
Buzz was preceded in death by Grace, his parents and Grace’s parents, Henry & Marian Jansen; a sister, Carol (Rich) VanderWyst, sister-in-law, Regina (Dick) Ludwig and brother-in-law Andy Anderson.
Visitation will begin at 10:00 and the funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, 411 Vandenbroek Street, Little Chute with Fr. Ron Belitz officiating. Interment will be at St. John Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers we ask that donations be made to Rock Cancer c/o The Spierings Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 171, Little Chute, WI 54140. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.
The Schommer family extends their sincere gratitude to ALL the staff at St. Paul Elder Services, Villa and Manor and the Hospice team; his card-playing crew; the volunteers; the clergy. Special thanks to PCA Sharri M; Hospice nurses Corrine and Lindsey. You all helped us to navigate the last years of Dad’s life with love and dignity. There was no better place for him to be.
“I’m in pretty good shape for the shape I’m in” credit MV |
1933 - 2024 (91 years)
