William Leonard Schmitt

William Leonard Schmitt, Master Sergeant Illinois State Police Ret., 71, passed away February 1, 2014 at Jefferson County Nursing Home in Dandridge, TN. Bill served with the State Police for 31 years, retiring in 2001. He was passionate about protecting the lives of those on the highways and local communities. Bill was also the recipient of numerous awards and commendations. After serving four years in the Air Force, he attended the college of Lake County and Loyola University. Bill was very active with his family and community, coaching Little League Baseball and soccer. He loved fishing and following Chicago Cubs baseball. He was a loving father and was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. He and his wife, Mary Alice, moved from Antioch, IL to Dandridge, TN in 2006 and opened Pennywalk Bed and Breakfast in 2007. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Mary Kurzeski Schmitt. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary Alice Ryder Schmitt; sons, Neil Schmitt, Keith Schmitt, Matthew Schmitt; daughter, Kate Schmitt; sisters, Susan Kapusinski, Paula Dam. Visitation will be held at Farrar Funeral Home in Dandridge, TN Tuesday, February 4, 2014 at 6:00 p.m., followed by a celebration of life at 7:30 p.m. with Rev. Dan Whitman officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to Jefferson County Nursing Home, 914 Industrial Park Road, Dandridge, TN 37725 toward the purchase of diagnostic equipment.