Br. Martin Schmitz OFM, Conv.

Br. Martin Schmitz, OFM Conv., a pioneer of Marytown and a Conventual Franciscan friar for more than 75 years, died peacefully on August 24, 2026, at the age of 96. Born James Schmitz on March 21, 1930, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, he entered the new Marytown apostolate in Kenosha in 1948 at age 18. He received the name Martin in honor of St. Martin de Porres, professed first vows in 1951, and solemn vows in 1954. Br. Martin devoted much of his life to the Marytown printing apostolate, where his practical skills, conscientiousness, and organizational abilities were greatly valued. He also served as Vicar of Marytown, Provincial Definitor, parochial assistant, formation team member, and co-founder of the Marytown Volunteer Program. Known for his prayerfulness, practicality, dependability, and joyful spirit, Br. Martin was the last surviving member of the original Marytown pioneers. He was grateful to receive care the last eight years of his life at the Little Sisters of the Poor in Palatine. Visitation will be held at the Little Sisters of the Poor – St. Joseph Home (80 W. Northwest Hwy., Palatine, IL 60067) on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Visitation will continue at Marytown (1600 W. Park Ave., Libertyville, IL 60048) on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:30PM followed by a Franciscan Wake Service at 7:00 PM. Visitation will be held at Marytown on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM immediately after the visitation. Br. Martin will be interred in a private ceremony at St. Adalbert Cemetery in Milwaukee, WI. Br. Martin’s life was a quiet and faithful witness to Franciscan poverty, fraternity, prayer, and service. May he rest in the peace of Christ. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Br. Martin’s memory are invited to make a gift to the St. Bonaventure Province Retirement Fund. Just as Br. Martin spent his retirement years in devoted prayer and service at Marytown, gifts to the Retirement Fund support the friars who have given their lives in that same spirit ensuring they are cared for with the dignity and love they have so faithfully offered to others. To make a gift to the St. Bonaventure Province Retirement Fund, please visit, https://secure.qgiv.com/for/cff-sbp/restriction/Retirement+Fund or scan the QR:

Br. Martin Schmitz OFM, Conv.

March 21, 1930 - August 24, 2026