Lloyd John Schmaltz, PhD

Dr. Lloyd J Schmaltz died on May 26, 2023 in Kalamazoo. Dr. Schmaltz was born in Chicago, IL on April 10, 1929 the son of Gustav and Rose (Wolkowski) Schmaltz. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps enlisting at the age of 17 in 1946 until 1949. He used the GI-Bill to further his education, enrolling at Augustana University. He went on to the University of Missouri to obtain his Masters and PhD in Geology. In 1959, along with his wife Marilyn, and their then, 3 children, Dr. Schmaltz accepted a position at Western Michigan University in the combined Geography and Geology Department.  After 6 years, Geology became its own department. Lloyd was allowed to hire three additional staff members as Chairman of the Geology Department. In the 29 years he spent at Western, he established a GEOLOGY program at the University that that many geoscientists in Michigan consider one of the best in the State. The program is exemplary, has attracted students and acclaim throughout the Midwest.  Lloyd loved working in the field, taking students on field trips throughout the USA. He was well known for his Grand Canyon Colorado River trips, leading 18 of them. The photo, truly captures the man. He retired in 1987 and went on to travel the world with Marilyn. He had remained very active with the University through the Geology Department Advisory Council, the first at WMU, that he initiated in 1982. His legacy includes the Lloyd J. Schmaltz Geology and mineral museum, which includes the new Dinosaur park. It is incredible, please take time to visit if you are in the area. Lloyd was a wine enthusiast. He shared his love and knowledge for wine with all. Growing and bottling for many years. The Friday afternoon wine tastings were well known with family and friends. His colleagues,William Harrison and John Yellich always had a seat at the table.  Lloyd and Marilyn married in 1952 , spent 67 years together before her death on July 6, 2019. He was also preceded in death by his four brothers; Harold, Henry, Charles and Norman and sister Irene. All five brothers served in the U.S. Armed forces at the same time, of which he was incredibly proud. He is survived by his four children Sandra & (Daniel Boxwell) Schmaltz of Benzonia, MI.; Lloyd (Jane)Schmaltz of Three Rivers, MI.; Linda (Brian) Walters of Amherst, NH;. David Schmaltz of Paw Paw MI. Four grandchildren; Alexander, Matthew, Kari and Laura. Five great-grandchildren; Phoenix, Brayden, Kaydence, Jackson and Abigail. Many nieces and nephews throughout the USA.  Lloyd is quoted in a recent article as saying “Life well passed my expectations”  Celebration of Life planned for a later date. For details LindaSchmaltzWalters@gmail.com  In lieu of flowers, please consider the: Lloyd and Marilyn Schmaltz MGRRE Scholarship at Western Michigan University.