Sunday, October 27, 2024.
Beloved son of John H. and Mary E. Schmaltz; loving brother of James (Barbara) Schmaltz and Beth (Mike) Riegert; adoring uncle of Zach, Jessica, Brittany, Laurel, John and Christopher; dear special friend of Becky Lilienkamp. Our dearest nephew, cousin and friend to many.
As a child, John (or Doug, as everyone knew him) was quite mischievous and brilliant at taking anything he could find apart and putting it back together. He graduated from Affton Senior High School in 1981. From there he went to work with his father Jack at the family business, Southco Auto Parts. Located on Gravois Road, Southco was a staple of Affton, MO for decades. When Jack retired from the business, Doug re-opened the store as South County Industrial Supply, specializing in hydraulics for commercial and construction equipment. Doug had hundreds of loyal customers who relied on him for expert services.
Doug was a person of many interests. He loved all forms of music, with a real affection for Pink Floyd and growing especially fond of jazz later in life. He was an enormous lover of film, with his tastes running from the classics to foreign films to the works of
Stanley Kubrick. An avid reader, Doug prided himself as a continuous learner, always picking up new interests along the way.
Doug could sometimes be found playing shuffleboard at the taverns in South City where he and his brother Jim played in various leagues. Doug made many, many friends during this time and was always known as the fun and friendly guy who always ready for a game.
Family was always Doug’s top priority. He was always there when someone needed him and was especially close to his parents and his siblings. He was a terrific uncle to his many nieces and nephews and always made them feel important and loved.
Doug had one particular friendship that he valued above all. He spent every weekend with his dear friend Becky Lilienkamp and talked to her daily. Becky was at his side, along with Doug’s immediate family, as he battled his illness.
Doug was an animal lover and donated to many causes. It didn’t matter what type of animal, whether domestic or wild, Doug always cared and donated. He had many cats throughout his life and he doted on them one and all. He is survived by his beloved cat Smoke.
Generous and kind, Doug had a wonderful sense of humor and took a lively interest in the world around him. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Funeral services and interment at Sunset Cemetery were held in private. In lieu of flowers contributions to 10th Life Cat Rescue 3202 Cherokee St. 63118 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital appreciated.
I have wonderful memories of playing with Doug when he was a baby. Such a sweet little boy who also played with my little Brother. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this time.
I am so very sorry to all of Doug’s family and friends for this loss. Doug was a great guy and always fun to be around. I have not seen his since COVID hit. I know he was very cautious about being around people after COVID. But before that, he would play in some shuffle board tournaments or just show up out of the blue every once in a while. Just knowing I will never ever see him on earth again is very sad to me. “The Dog” or “Dougie Dog” will be very missed. Please know he will always hold a very special place in my heart and I am sure in many others as well.
Peace,
Jill Romay
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. May peace, love and the kinship of family guide you through this loss.
Thank you Dave