Deborah Ann Schmuhl

Deborah “Debbie” Ann (Diaz) Schmuhl went to meet her Heavenly Father on Saturday, February 21, 2026, in Brooksville, Florida.  She passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. 

From diagnosis through her final moments, Debbie was lovingly and devotedly cared for by her husband and best friend, Gerald “Jerry” F. Schmuhl, who remained faithfully by her side.  Debbie and Jerry were approaching their 40th wedding anniversary on November 21, 2026.  Together they shared a love of golfing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.  They also cherished their beloved pets over the years, including their Springer Spaniel, Sarah, and their cat, Neko.  They were longtime members of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Brandon, Wisconsin.

Debbie found joy in reading, watching movies, listening to music, making people laugh, and caring for her home.  She was always ready to welcome visitors with a warm meal and open heart.  Many will remember Debbie for her beauty both inside and out — especially her heartwarming smile and contagious laugh.  She had a special gift for making everyone she met feel welcomed, heard, and valued.

Debbie graduated from Goodrich High School in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, with the Class of 1970. In 1971, she earned a certificate in Abnormal Psychology from Fond du Lac Technical Institute and spent several years caring for individuals with special needs.  She later built a long and successful career as a Service Writer, a role she held for nearly 45 years.  During that time, she also served in Service Manager and Service Director roles at various dealerships and received multiple awards from Ford and Toyota for outstanding service.

Debbie is survived by her siblings: Linda Mor; Delfino (Vicki) Diaz Jr.; her twin brother, Dennis (JoAnn) Diaz; and Alan Wagner.  She is also lovingly remembered by her children and grandchildren: Robert “Bobby” K. Schaeve III and his children Alexia, Dylan, and Ava; Matthew “Matt” (Gwen) D. Schaeve and their children Simon and Scarlett; and Nina (Nicholas) M. Malm and their children Penelope and Lear.

She was preceded in death by her stepson, Michael “Mike” J. Schmuhl, and is survived by his wife, Suzanne, and their children Brayden, Mason, Everley, and Brooks.  Her children remember Debbie for her remarkable patience and her gentle, never-overbearing words of wisdom throughout their lives.

Debbie was also preceded in death by her mother, Evelyn (Wagner) Diaz; her father, Delfino “The Chief” Diaz Sr.; and her brother, Daniel Diaz.

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