Mary A. Schmitt, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully of natural causes on May 20, 2026, at Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Friends and family may visit from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at the church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Entombment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Mary was born on November 5, 1938, in Holy Cross, Iowa, to Raymond Gansemer and Remi (Schaul). On September 28, 1955, she married Paul Schmitt, beginning a remarkable 70‑year journey of love, partnership, and family life together.

Mary spent many years working as a school bus attendant for special needs children with the Dubuque Community School District. Her gentle patience, steady presence, and genuine care made a lasting impact on the students she supported and the colleagues who admired her.

She found joy in the everyday pleasures that filled her life with meaning—tending her flower gardens, playing bingo with her sister‑in‑law Margaret, fishing and playing cards with her family, golfing, and enjoying casino outings with Paul and their daughter Amy. Mary was a devoted wife and mother whose quick wit, sense of humor, and strong work ethic live on in her children.

Mary is survived by her husband, Paul; and their children: Mark (Diane) Schmitt of Farley, IA; Josie (Roger) Riniker of North Buena Vista, IA; Amy (Brad) Pape of Dubuque, IA; and Beth (Lu Wilford) Schmitt of Coralville, IA. She is also survived by her grandchildren—Nikki Welchel, Heidi Hoerner, Jeff Schmitt, Kurt Riniker, Bob Riniker, Emily Riniker, Tony Lang, Kayla Lang, and Matthew Kurt—as well as 11 great‑grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Remi and Raymond; her sisters, Ann Westhoff and Patricia Gassman; and seven in‑laws.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Mary’s name or used to help cover funeral expenses.