On Monday, August 24, 2026, + Br. Martin SCHMITZ was embraced by Sister Death at the Little Sisters of the Poor – St. Joseph Home for the Elderly in Palatine, IL, aged 96, and having been a Franciscan Religious Brother for over 75 years. His loss is felt throughout the Province of St. Bonaventure and beyond; he was the last of the pioneers of Marytown and among its first vocations in 1948. He lived his life inspired by the witness of St. Francis and St. Maximilian Kolbe, and was completely dedicated to serving the Immaculata.
The Franciscan Wake Service was held in the Chapel of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament at the National Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe (Marytown) on Thursday evening, August 27, 2026. With Fr. Lawrence ZUREK presiding, the Wake Service was well attended by many friars, staff, and friends. Br. Joseph WOOD gave a touching tribute to Br. Martin, reflecting on his saintly character, devoted life, and tireless commitment to our Order and mission.
The following day, the Minister Provincial of St. Bonaventure Province, Very Rev. Paul Joseph LANGEVIN, presided over the solemn Holy Mass of Christian Burial at Marytown. The Chapel was full of people, all gathering to bid farewell to God’s “good and faithful servant.” As his casket was placed into the hearse, the friars chanted the ‘Salve Regina,’ asking Our Lady’s intercession for the soul of Br. Martin. He was laid to rest in the friar’s section in St. Adalbert Cemetery, Milwaukee, WI.
