Joseph Ambrose Schlitz, Jr.

Sturtevant – Joseph Ambrose Schlitz, Jr., 96, received the promise of eternal life on Tuesday, June 7, 2016, surrounded by the love of his family.  He was born in Paris, WI, on November 7, 1919, son of the late Joseph A. Schlitz, Sr. and Mary (nee: Fonk) Schlitz.

Joseph was united in marriage to the love of his life, the former Elaine Katherine Tange, on August 12, 1946.  Elaine preceded him in death on January 12, 1973.

Joe proudly and faithfully served his country in the United States Army during World War II.  He fought in North Africa, stormed the beaches at Normandy, and marched across Europe into Germany.  Joe was a recipient of the Bronze Star.

Following the war, Joe was a dairy farmer from 1946 until 1962.  He then worked for Jacobsen Manufacturing for twenty years.  Joe had a passion for cars his entire life.  In 1964, he started Schlitz Used Cars in Sturtevant and worked diligently there until this past December when his health started to fail.  Above all, he cherished his family and loved playing with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Joe will be dearly missed by all who loved him.

Joe leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Peter (Margaret) Schlitz, Thomas (Heide) Schlitz, Susan Sorenson, James Schlitz, John Schlitz, Joann (Paul) Langner, William (Loudella) Schlitz, Michael (Kathleen) Schlitz, Ann (Steven) Wirkuty, Mary (Alan) Rench, Theodore Schlitz, Charles (Laura) Schlitz; 19 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; brother, Albert (Helen) Schlitz; nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends too numerous to mention.

In addition to his parents and wife Elaine, Joe is preceded in death by his son, Robert Alan Schlitz; son-in-law Robert R. Sorenson; 8 sisters; and 1 brother.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Monday, June 13, 2016, 12:00pm, at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory, 4600 County Line Road, with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating.  Visitation will be from 10:00am until the time of the service.  Burial with full military honors will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park.  Memorials in Joe’s memory have been suggested to St. Sebastian’s Catholic Church, 3126 – 95th Street, Sturtevant, WI, 53177, or to the family.

The family would like to extend a “Thank You” to the staff at The Milwaukee VA Medical Center and Vitas Hospice for the love and care given to Joe during this difficult time.