Robert James Schmutzler

Robert James Schmutzler (96) of Watertown, passed away on January 7, 2025 at Parker Adventist Hospital.

Funeral services will be held on July 17, 2025 at 2 PM at the Schmutzler-Vick Funeral Home of Watertown, with Pastor David Zimmerman officiating. Burial will be at the Oak Hill Cemetery with full Military Rites. Family and friends may call at the funeral home from 12 PM to time of service (2 PM).

Robert J. Schmutzler was born on August 17, 1928 in Watertown, the son of Oscar E. Sr. and Meta (Donner) Schmutzler. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1947 and the University of Wisconsin in 1954. After University graduation, he volunteered for induction into the U.S. Air Force and served as Captain in the Strategic Air Command under General Curtis LeMay during the Korean war.

On his return from Japan duty in 1954, he married Donna (Schmidt) Schmutzler and was then stationed in several bases in the United States.

After his discharge from active duty in 1956, he continued to remain in the Active Reserves for many years. He returned to Watertown in 1956. He graduated from the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in Milwaukee and then became partners with his brothers in the Schmutzler Funeral Home and Schmutzler Furniture Company until his retirement in 1987. He was the 3rd generation of his family to be in the funeral service profession.

Robert was an active member of the First Congregational Church UCC of Watertown and served on the Board of Deacons, the Trustee Board, and Church Council. He was a member of Jefferson Lodge #9, American Legion Post #189, Knights Templar, Zor Shrine, Order of the Eastern Star, Watertown Country Club, Jolly Boys Investment Club, Watertown Historical Society, Wisconsin Association of Funeral Directors, The University of Wisconsin Alumni Association, and a recipient of the 32nd Degree in Masonry. In his retirement, he enjoyed traveling, golfing, playing cards, and woodworking.

Surviving are his wife, Donna Schmutzler, his daughters Jane Burkhardt and Jill Seghetti of Parker, Colorado, grandchildren Keatra (David) Gilbert of Englewood, CO, Alison (Maiola) Vivas of Honolulu, HI, Kaitlin (Kasey) Burkhardt of Parker, CO, and twins Cooper (Kelsee) Seghetti of Parker, CO and Courtney (Kyle) Seghetti of Littleton, CO, great-grandchildren Russell and Maxwell Gilbert of Englewood, CO, and Kamalei, Kahiau, and Kupa’a Vivas of Honolulu, HI, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was the last surviving member of his family.

Note: Masonic Rites prior to the service at 2PM.