Stephanie Lynne Schimmels

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Stephanie Lynne Schimmels, 71, of Milwaukee, announces she went home to be with the Lord. She always offered support, wisdom and love in abundance, and passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love on Saturday, August 17, 2024, after a long and beautifully lived life. Born June 1953 in Milwaukee to Virginia (Klamecki) and Stephen Susienka, Stephanie committed her life to her own children as well as the children that she worked with as a handicap children’s assistant at Hamilton High School for 26 years, coaching Special Olympics, organizing events, and ensuring their safety to and from school as the School Bus Director. She was faithful, funny, witty, passionate, creative, and devoted to her children and grandchildren. An avid collector, she had a heightened appreciation for the beauty and importance of all things. She thoughtfully and perfectly found worth in everyday items others would not consider important, and her beautiful mind and attention to detail showed through in everything she did. Her empathetic presence was palpable in how she touched the lives of others. A dedicated mother and nana, she adopted her grandson, Declan, and has raised him since infancy. With her strong faith in God, she loved attending Jackson Park Lutheran Church where Declan sang weekly. How she enjoyed hearing him sing and play the piano, violin, and guitar. Her pride in Declan, her children, and grandchildren radiated with pure joy. Survived by her children: JoEllen Schimmels and husband Manny Griego; Thaddeus Schimmels and wife Jamie; Meghan Sedlar and husband Scott; Declan Schimmels; grandchildren Mariah, Kaleb, Lauren, Robby, Kenley, and Jaxon who joyfully referred to her as nana; her dog, Miss Mousey; family, and friends. While our hearts mourn her loss, we take comfort in knowing she is no longer suffering. Stephanie was predeceased by her parents, Virginia and Stephen Susienka and her son, Eric Schimmels. Stephanie was forever faithful and is enjoying her place in heaven. She had a huge, generous, and loyal heart, will be greatly missed, and will always be our hero. In lieu of flowers the family asks to please donate to the Jackson Park Lutheran Church. We celebrate a life rich in love, resilience, and profound impact on others at her Memorial Service Saturday, August 31st at JACKSON PARK LUTHERAN CHURCH (4535 W. Oklahoma Ave). With visitation from 12:00 – 2:00 pm proceeding the service at 2:00 pm. Please share memories/photos below. The family would very much appreciate it.