"Betty and family: We are so sorry to read about Phil. Your faith is strong, so God will comfort you during this difficult time. It was our good fortune to cross paths with you and with Phil at Hosanna Lutheran Church. Phil took me soaring and I will always be grateful to Phil for that experience! Cherish the wonderful family memories knowing that God is now caring for Phil in heaven. Dave and Norma Amundson"
In loving memory of
Philip Frederick Schmalz
November 15, 1941 - December 9, 2021
A memorial service for Philip Frederick Schmalz of Rochester, MN, will be held Friday, December 17, 2021, at 2 PM at Zumbro Lutheran Church. Visitation will begin at 12 noon at the church. Wearing of masks is required. The service will be live streamed at zumbrolutheran.org.
Phil was born November 15, 1941, in Buffalo, NY, to Irma (Kuesel) and Frederick D. Schmalz. He was raised in Minneapolis, MN, and graduated from Edina High School in 1959. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Valparaiso University in 1963 and a Master of Science degree from Northern Illinois University in 1969. Phil did additional graduate work in physiology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. In 1974, Phil moved to Rochester and began his career at Mayo Clinic as a Research Technologist in GI Physiology until his retirement in 2005.
Phil and Betty Danielson met on a blind date and were married October 11, 1975, in Clara City, MN. They lived in Rochester with their children Jonathan and Kathryn. A person of many interests, Phil enjoyed doing woodworking, building furniture for his family and remodeling their home of 42 years. Phil's love of aviation was lived out as a 40-year member of the Minnesota Soaring Club where he served on boards and held offices in both the Soaring Club and Stanton Airport. His joy was giving others the experience of soaring with sailplane flights over Stanton and Cannon Falls. Phil and Betty enjoyed road trips to many US states. Other travel included Australia, European river cruises and the Canadian Maritimes.
Phil was an active member of Zumbro Lutheran Church. He served on many committees and used his woodworking skills to build furniture and choir room cabinets for Zumbro. Phil and Betty found much joy singing in the Zumbro Lutheran Choir and being involved in choir activities. Prior to joining Zumbro Lutheran, Phil, Betty and children were charter members of Hosanna Lutheran Church.
Phil died peacefully in the early hours of December 9, 2021, at Mayo Clinic Hospital-St. Marys campus with Betty, Jon and Katie at his bedside. Phil was diagnosed with interstitial lung disease in the spring of 2021, with a steady decline in his health. He was able to celebrate his 80th birthday with extended family and wishes from so many friends.
Phil is survived by his wife Betty, son Jonathan (Laura) Schmalz and daughter Kathryn Schmalz, grandchildren Autumn and Noah Schmalz; brother Peter (Elly) Schmalz of Landenberg, PA; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Mary (Danielson) and David Nickel, a nephew and three nieces and many beloved cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Irma Schmalz.
Gifts in memory of Phil Schmalz may be sent to the Zumbro Lutheran Choir/Organ Fund or Mayo Clinic Pulmonary Research, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905.
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Schmalz family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Tributes
"I had the pleasure of working with Phil over 40 years ago. Phil was an amazing lab associate with extensive knowledge of the science as well as the workings of the Mayo Foundation. We enjoyed so many good times together both in the lab and around Rochester. Phil and Betty were good friends who welcomed us into the Minnesota life. Phil's dry sense of humor was one of his many attributes; his level headed outlook, even on the golf course made for many pleasant times. A good friend. I never took a glider ride with him but heard many stories of his days on the wing. Grace and I send our sincerest sympathies to Betty and the family. We would love to see you some time--our reminisces would be many and rich."
"Dear Betty and family, We are shocked to read about Phil?s death. What a great loss for all of you. We are grateful we knew him and especially that Curt got his only glider ride with Phil. He has told the story many times. We are thinking of you and praying for you as you walk through the valley of grief. In Christ, Curt and Jean Mortenson."
"I will always remember Phil as a good friend and member of Minnesota Soaring Club. "
"I first met Phil upon joining the Minnesota glider club in 1988. I will remember him as quiet, thoughtful caring man. I had the pleasure of working at a few soaring contest with Phil where his passion and dedication to soaring was very apparent. I will miss Phil?s presence around the Staton airport. Rest In Peace my friend."
"I am profoundly grateful to Phil for his help and guidance when I worked with him in the Dept of Physiology at Mayo. His knowledge and skills were critical to the success of my work. However, I equally value my memories of chatting about his soaring, his woodworking, the family and the choir. It was always a pleasure to catch up with him at a Lyra Baroque concert or similar event after his retirement. My sincere condolences to Betty, Jon and Katie and regrets that I cannot attend in person from Scotland. Though I will raise a small glass of single malt to his memory this evening. Simon Gibbons"
"I had the privilege of knowing and working with Phil in GI Physiology at Mayo for 31 years. Phil was the kindest and most considerable of others and the most gentle person I've known. I am so sorry Betty to learn of your loss. My condolences to you and to Jonathan and Kathryn. Joe Szurszewski"
"Hello, Betty and family! I remember the Mayo days when Phil, Joe Szurszewski, Keith Kelly, me and others shared seats in Med Sci at lectures in Dr. Code's (and Jerry's) office off that first hallway just inside the north door of the building! I also remember you from your work with hematology patients. I was so sorry to hear about your loss of Phil. Incidentally what a beautiful picture of Phil with that great smile!!! I didn't know you were Zumbro Lutheran members, but I am sending this obituary to Jane Sande (now MD in Ohio)...daughter of Betty and Bob Sande who you might have known! Love and Prayers to you and your family! Darlene Kelly"