Robert Schmeling II

Rob was a devoted and loving son, husband, father, brother, and friend. Rob was “Mr. Fix-It” to perfection and generous with his time and talents, often identifying projects needing attention and completing them with no expected recognition or thanks.

Born November 26, 1948 in Manistique, MI and graduated from Escanaba High School, then continuing on to receive a Civil Engineering degree from Michigan State University (Go Green!) in 1971. He then received a MBA from Northern Michigan University in 1988. After graduation from Michigan State, Rob worked as an engineer for Meridian Township and then moved to Marquette to work for the State of Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) until his retirement in 2010.

Rob spent countless hours enjoying and maintaining his hunting camp in Stonington, the family cabin on Little Lake, and the Hebert River Camp on the Escanaba River. He was happiest when he was busy and had to almost be forced and ordered to relax and sit.

Rob was an 8-time Ironman Triathlon finisher and could be seen training while riding his bike from Marquette to Escanaba or swimming across Little Lake. Many of Rob’s training partners became his long-time friends. Rob was a devoted dad and coach in supporting his daughters Joani and Leslie during their many years of AAU, school sports, and current competitions, traveling many miles to locations across the country to participate and support his family in their activities. Countless memories were made as a family with mom, dad, and daughters participating in races, including most recently the Philadelphia Distance Run in 2022.

Rob leaves behind Mary, his wife of 44 years, daughters Joani of Philadelphia, PA, Leslie (Ethan Sundheim) of Omaha, his furry companion Kona; sister Jeanene Brandt (Greg) of Lake City, MI; Brother-in-Law John (Margo) Hebert of Milford, MI and Bill (Alane) Hebert of Portland, OR; Step-sisters Suzie (Jonathan) Baum of Great Barrington, MA, Julia (David) Rubel of Chatham, NY, Rebecca (John) Moulton of Horton, MI, and Elsa Banks of Milwaukee, WI; Nephews Ryan (Adrienne) Brandt of Chelsea, MI, Kyle (Amber) Brandt of Kentwood, MI, Ben Hebert of Philomath, OR; Niece Kellie (David) Hebert-Follin of Suttons Bay, MI; Grand-nieces Sydney and Winslow Brandt; Grand-nephew Kellan Brandt; and several cousins.

Rob is preceded in his death by his parents, Robert (Bob) and Dorothy Schmeling, in-laws John and Muriel Hebert, and stepmother Joann Banks Schmeling.

A memorial service and celebration will be planned for the summer [June 28th].

In lieu of flowers, make a donation in Rob’s name to an organization that is meaningful to you and go outside and enjoy a physical activity, just like Rob would love to do.

In the words of 1 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.