David L. Schmutzler passed away at Froedert Memorial Hospital on Saturday, May 16, 2020. David found eternal life after sustaining critical injuries when his aircraft went down near the Burlington Airport. He was President and owner of Jadair International, Port Washington, Wisconsin. David was born in Peoria, Illinois on November 11, 1939 to Jack Schmutzler and Dorothy Schuh. He was 80 years old.
David graduated from Purdue University with a bachelor's degree in engineering science. He served in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged after three years of service. Following his service, he worked in the field of engineering in Utah and Wisconsin. Eventually, David joined his father, Jack, in the development and manufacturing of water recycling equipment for the mining and construction industry. David never stopped working, praying and believing in the work and success of his products and his flying. He had a strong faith and hope that drove his life missions. He had a passion for flying and enjoyed his work as a sea plane, single and multi-engine flight instructor. He will be sorely missed in our lives and in the air.
He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and is survived by his wife of 20 years, Barbara M. Bode, children; Brighton Schmutzler of Park City, Utah, Shane (Becky) Schmutzler of Port Washington, Wisconsin, Dunn Schmutzler of Greendale, Wisconsin, step-children; Anne Bourguignon of Colorado, Mike Bourguignon of Colorado, Mark (Carrie) Bourguignon of California, grandchildren; Allison, Emmalee, Savannah, Ammon, Miriam, Quinn, Sydney and Vivienne; brother Paul Schmutzler and former wife Sondra Green. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister-in-law, Linda Schmutzler.
David's family will have a Memorial Service at St. John's Lutheran Church LCMS. Interment will take place at Union Cemetery in Port Washington. Donations would be welcome in his honor to St. John's Lutheran Church (217 North Freeman Drive, Port Washington, WI, 53074). David's family will welcome friends and extended family for a celebration of life at a later date.