August 8, 1940 – May 17, 2023
Gerald Duane Schmautz, 82, of Harrold and formerly of Dupree, passed away Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at his home.
His memorial service was held Thursday, May 25, 2023, at the Harrold School Gym. Luze Funeral Home of Highmore was in charge of arrangements.
Gerald Schmautz was born August 8, 1940, in Glen Ullin, ND to Rueben and Edna Schmautz. Gerald was raised in the Glen Ullin area where he attended country school. The family moved to Lead in 1956.
Gerald held many different titles, with his favorite being a husband to his bride, Shirley, of 61 years. He was a father to his five children and a grandpa who loved nothing more than spoiling all of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Aside from his love for his family, Gerald was always the first one to lend a helping hand, from driving bus to helping his children/grandchildren with the best deals on the car lot. He drove school bus in Dupree for a time.
Survivors include his wife, Shirley, Harrold; sons, Duane (Lori) of Pierre, Dale (Rhonda) of Belle Fourche, Tim (Jackie) of Pierre, and Danny (Liz) of Ft. Pierre; daughter, Scarlet (Dean) of Harrold; sisters, Renee (Larry) Chitwood of Sioux Falls and Nancy (Kurt) Klunder of Black Hawk; twelve grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and a very special friend who is considered part of the family, Dustin.
Gerald was preceded in death by his parents: Rueben and Edna Schmautz; infant sister, Karen; sister, Diane Gray; brother-in-law, Harley Gray; daughterin- law, Carol Schmautz; brothers-in-law: Gaylord and Ray Edwards; and sister-in-law, Dorothy Edwards.