Leo Schmauch

Leo Arnold Schmauch, 95, a longtime Libby resident, peacefully passed away Nov. 20 at the Libby Care Center.  Leo was born May 18, 1919 in Kalispell to Fred and Mida (Nordome) Schmauch, the second of three sons.  He attended the Kalispell Public Schools and married Ada Farris in Kalispell in 1943. In 1944 he entered the United States Navy.  Following his discharge from the service in 1946, Leo and Ada moved to Libby where Leo worked for the J. Neils Lumber Company as a first-class crane operator until his retirement. After retiring, Leo devoted his time to family and friends.  He enjoyed restoring John Deere tractors, as well as hunting and fishing.  

Leo was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Mida; his brothers Norman and Jim; and his wife Ada.

Leo is survived by sons Fred (Mikel) of Salt Lake City, Utah and Mike (Nancy) of Missoula; daughter Sallie (Mickey) of Choteau; 7 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Leo wanted to give a special thanks to his “little angel,” granddaughter Sarah, who was by his side with comfort and care, tending to his needs with love.  Leo also wanted to thank his longtime friend and companion, Hazel Halsey, with whom he enjoyed so many wonderful years and occasions.

The family wishes to thank all those who visited Leo frequently and to thank the nurses and staff at the Libby Care Center for their comfort and compassion.

Services for Leo will be held Tuesday, Nov. 25 at 1 p.m. at Schnackenberg and Nelson Funeral Home Chapel, 422 W. 2nd Street, Libby, followed by military honors at the City of Libby Cemetery.  Interment will be at Glacier Memorial Gardens in Kalispell. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.