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Richard "Rich" P. Schmelzer

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Submitted by admin on Tue, 10/07/2025 - 15:19

Richard “Rich” P. Schmelzer, 66, of Elkader, passed away at his home on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025.

 

Visitation was held on Oct. 6, at Morris Funeral Home in Garnavillo, and continued on Oct. 7, at St. Joseph Catholic Church prior to the funeral service. Burial was in the church cemetery. Deacon Jim Pfaffly officiated.

 

Rich was born on May 17, 1959, in Guttenberg. He was the youngest of six children to Lorraine and Esther (Bockenstedt) Schmelzer. Rich was raised and graduated high school in Garnavillo. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Suzette Ingles, on Aug. 21, 2010, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Garnavillo. Together, they resided in Elkader with their three beloved dogs: Bella, Sophie and Rex.

 

Rich had many hobbies, which included farming with his brother, Jay (he always looked forward to getting in the combine), classic cars, going for drives, participating in the Combat Vet rides, spending time with friends and most of all his family.

 

Survivors include his stepdaughters, Brooke (Jake) Steger of Elkport and Kristi (Travis) Chettinger of Dundee; grandchildren, Kota Steger and Ashlynn, Bralie and Kayson Chettinger; siblings, Sharon (Dennis) Reth, Gary (Virginia) Schmelzer, Jay Schmelzer and LaVerl (Boots) Schmelzer; and many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his wife of 15 years, Suzette; parents, Lorraine and Esther Schmelzer; parents-in-law, Larry and Sheila Ingles; and a brother, Terry (Bugsy) Schmelzer.

 

Morris Funeral Home in Garnavillo is assisting the family. Information is available at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

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