James Henry Schmit

James Henry “Jim” Schmit, aged 75, passed peacefully August 19, 2025 in Chandler AZ. He was born in Port Washington, WI.

Jim graduated from East Lansing High School in 1967. After graduating, Jim served honorably in the US Army at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Jim moved to Chandler, AZ taking pride in working with the City of Tempe where he worked as a Fire Inspector. Jim retired in January of 2022.

He spent his retirement tinkering around the house, going to lacrosse games, visiting and playing golf with his immediate family, preparing for the next Schmitfest, and meeting up with his Tempe Fire family often.

Jim had a gift of entering a room and making everyone feel good about themselves. From his amazing smile to his infectious laugh, there was no escape from the feeling you had when you were in a room with him. Jim was a gift to all who knew him.

He loved Michigan State Spartan sports, and golfing whenever he could. His motto, “What happens on the golf course stays on the course!”

Jim was a good son, brother, pops, dad, companion, and friend.

Being blessed to be in his life were his sons Robert (Robby) Schmit and Randy Schmit with his former spouse Terry Busfield Schmit of Sacramento, CA.

He was also blessed with his son Brody Schmit with his former spouse and partner in crime, Julie Schmit of Chandler, AZ.

Jim is also survived by 4 grandsons, Jacob, Patrick, Isiah, Curtis (Davina) Schmit and 2 great-grandchildren Eren and Mariah; his siblings, Pauline Jones, Wendy Zieger, Nancy (Steve) Hegedus and Barry (Amy) Schmit; his cousin Jackie LaFever; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and his special friends, Tom and Adele Arnold.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Rose Marie Schmit and his brother-in-law Rich Jones.

In lieu of flowers,

please consider donating in memory of Jim to the Glioblastoma Foundation

https://glioblastomafoundation.org/