James "Jim" Herman Schmitt, 83, of St. James, MO, formerly of Steelville passed away Monday, February 8, 2010 at the Missouri Veteran's Home in St. James, MO. He was born December 6, 1926 in St. Louis, MO to Herman and Edna (Susanka) Schmitt. On March 17, 1951, he was united in marriage to Nancy Jane Riley who preceded him in death in October of 2002. Jim served our country as a Seaman 2nd Class in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. He was aboard the USS Bushnell in the Asiatic-Pacific areas. During his lifetime, Jim was top agent for Guardian Life Insurance for ten years, owned and managed Trails End Riding Stables in Chesterfield, MO, owned Mississippi Mortgage Co. and owned Red Wheel Restaurant in Warrenton, MO, which was fitting because he loved to cook. In 1979, Jim and his wife retired to Steelville, where they owned and operated Nancy's Dolls and Antique Shop. Jim also enjoyed various community involvements and was a member of the Steelville Chamber of Commerce. He was awarded "Citizen of the Year" during that time period. After the death of his wife, Jim moved to Kansas to be near one of his daughters. Jim always had a love for law and took several classes to learn more. He was a lifetime member of the NRA and for many years enjoyed participating in reenactments of the Pre-1840 Mountain Men Rendezvous. In later years, he took some time in traveling to other countries. Jim will be sadly missed by his nine children; Michael Schmitt of Austin, TX, Barbara Hatch and husband Ray of Houston, TX, Mary Lane and husband Dennis of Granite City, IL, Catherine Boyer and husband Bruce of Mineral Point, MO, Richard Schmitt from the state of Alaska, Edward Schmitt and wife Brenda of Eureka, MO, Suzanne Hatcher and husband Mark of North Augusta, SC, Theresa Schmitt of Cuba, MO and Elizabeth Smith of Overland Park, KS; twenty-four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one brother, Robert Schmitt; relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife Nancy Schmitt. Visitation was from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 12, 2010 at the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home in Steelville, MO. A memorial graveside service was held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday, June 12, 2010 at the Steelville Cemetery with Dennis and David Lane officiating. Military honors were provided by the U.S. Navy and St. James VFW. The Family was served by the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home of Steelville, MO.