Virgil Leroy Schmitter

Virgil Leroy Schmitter, a cherished member of the Queen City community, passed away on August 5, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on October 22, 1937, Virgil lived a life dedicated to service, family, and his community.

After graduating from Schuyler County High School in 1955, Virgil began a career with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MODOT), where he dedicated many years of his life before his retirement in 1997. His passion for service extended beyond his professional life; he proudly served our country as a member of the National Guard Reserves.

Virgil's commitment to his community was evident through numerous volunteer efforts. He served for many years as fire chief of the Queen City Fire Department and was one of the first EMTs when the ambulance service was established, demonstrating his deep care for the well-being of those around him. Additionally, he volunteered for over twenty years running the food shack during Pioneer Days, making it a beloved tradition in the town. His contributions also included serving as a council member of St. John's Lutheran Church, where he played a pivotal role in aiding the construction of a new addition. He was actively involved with the Schuyler R-1 Booster Club and worked with local children on Little League. Together with his wife, Clarabelle, Virgil helped establish the Food Room/Blessings Shop, along with facilitating meal deliveries to shut-ins through the Nutrition Site.

Virgil is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Clarabelle (O'Toole) Schmitter; his son Mike and special friend Janice Pearce of Novinger, MO; his daughter Brenda Lee Schmitter of Queen City, MO; his sisters Wilma Kirkman of Newton, IA, and Naomi Schmitter of Unionville, MO; his brother William (Jeanie) Schmitter of Mt. Vernon, MO; and sister-in-law Judy Schmitter. His nephews Todd (Dena) Schmitter ,Memphis, MO; Jason (Angela) Schmitter, Lancaster, MO; Davis (Alana) Kirkman, Newton, IA; Brent (Kimberly) Schmitter, Mt. Vernon, MO; along with nieces, Krista (Rodney) Cooper, Greentop, MO; Kala Schmitter, Columbia, MO; Dorothy (Shawn) McFarling, Newton, IA; Julie (Terry) Bush, Washington, MO; and Maria (Chad) Smith, Macon, MO. He is also survived by many other close friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel G. and Emma M. Schmitter; his grandparents; his brother Gilbert Schmitter; his brother-in-law Robert Kirkman; and his stepmother, Cecil (Gottman) Schmitter.

Virgil's legacy of love, community service, and dedication to family will be deeply missed by the community and those around him.

Visitation will be held at Dooley Funeral Home in Queen City, MO, on August 8, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The funeral service will take place the following day, August 9, 2025, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Queen City at 10:00 AM. Local arrangements are under the direction of Dooley Funeral Home, 711 Washington Street, Queen City, Missouri, 63561. Memorials may be left to the Schuyler County Nutrition Site or the Queen City Cemetery.