Gerald R. Schmelz, 81, of Union, Missouri, passed away on April 16, 2026.

He was born on February 27, 1945, to the union of Robert and Ruth (Williams) Schmelz.

Jerry was employed at Ford Motor Company and retired there after many years of employment.

He was a caregiver to his deceased wife, Julia (Lanius) Schmelz, his soulmate.

Jerry enjoyed riding his motorcycle and being a member of the club.

Survivors include his brother, Mike (Pam) Schmelz; son, Steven Schmelz; and daughter, Angela Laubinger, all of Union.
He is also survived by his stepson, Elton Lanius; daughter-in-law, Nicole Lanius; and grandchildren, Devin (Bridgette) Smith, Kurtiss (Sarah) Smith, Justin Schmelz, Tyler Schmelz, Alyiah (Mitch) Hammock, and Nicolas, Ava, and Julian Lanius.
He is further survived by nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ruth Schmelz; sister, Linda Schmelz; niece, Kelly Ann Schmelz; and grandparents, Clyde and Virgie Williams and Leonard and Minnie Schmelz.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Franklin County Humane Society

1222 W Main St, Union, MO 63084

Family is being served by Midlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens in Union, MO.