Gisela Elizabeth (Preiss) Schmidt

Gisela Elizabeth Schmidt (nee Preiss), age 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 14, 2023.

Gisela was born in Trier, Germany on August 9, 1936. After finishing school, she went on to work at her parents’ business where she met Franz, who she married on June 18, 1955. Their
oldest daughter Monika, was born in Germany and in December 1956 they moved their little family to Chicago, IL. Their second child, Frank, Jr. was born 4 months later followed by their youngest daughter, Marianne, five years after that. Gisela was a wonderful cook, and exceptional baker. She was also very creative and had great sewing skills. Gisela worked full time until her retirement. She and her husband were members of several German-American organizations and loved attending the various functions, and especially loved the dances. Gisela also loved playing cards and visiting with her family and friends.

Gisela is survived by her loving daughters, Monika (Peter) Kiefer and Marianne (John) Ashton; cherished grandchildren, Melissa (Brad) Hull, Kim (Nate) Cummins, Cassie (Wes) Owen, Brian (Melissa) Wilhelm, Chris (Michelle) Wilhelm; and step-grandson Jordan (Ashley) Ashton; and great grandchildren, Morgan, Carter, Kendall, Devin, Desi, Trystan, Sadie, Jackson, Ava, Landon, Brady, Grace, Maxine, David, Alex, Logan and Lilah.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, Franz; her son, Frank, Jr.; great granddaughter Maggie; and step-grandson John, Jr.

A visitation for Gisela will be held from 9am until the time of service at 11am on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 941 S. Old Rand Rd., Lake Zurich, IL 60047. Burial will be held for family at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in River Grove, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gisela’s name may be made to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or Alzheimer’s Association