Harlan David Schmitz, 59, passed away Sunday, April 5, 2026, at his home north of St. Benedict.
He was born December 26, 1966, in Seneca, Kansas, the son of Stanley and Mary Alice (Niekamp) Schmitz of Seneca.
Harlan grew up on the family farm north of St. Benedict, where he worked alongside his father throughout his school years. He graduated from B&B USD 451 High School in 1985. Following graduation, he worked for Roger Burr Construction for several years before taking a position at Henry Brothers Implement, where he worked in the parts department and repaired farm tires for area farmers. He later worked for Seneca Ready Mix for five years until his passion for farming called him back full-time. When his father retired, Harlan took over the farming operation and continued running the farm until his sudden passing. Ever dedicated, he had already made plans for the upcoming planting season.
Harlan was known for his strong work ethic and his ever-present smile. Family meant everything to him, and he especially cherished time spent at family gatherings and holidays. In his free time, he enjoyed watching sports, particularly cheering on the Royals, Chiefs, and K-State Wildcats, often sharing those moments with family and friends.
During the winter months, Harlan loved traveling to South Padre Island, Texas, where he enjoyed the sunshine, friendships, and relaxed pace of beach life. He treasured those winters filled with laughter and companionship. In recent years, declining health prevented him from making those trips.
Harlan was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict and Knights of Columbus Council 1769 in Seneca.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Kimberly Barnhart, on October 22, 2023.
Survivors include his parents, Stanley and Mary Alice Schmitz of Seneca; his brother, LeRoy (Julie) Schmitz of Seneca; his sister, Deann (Terry) Tiede of Manhattan; his niece, Hannah Barnhart; his nephews, Cody Barnhart and Tyler Tiede; his friend, Trinity Abril; as well as his step-nephew, Cody (Hannah) Scott; step-niece, Caitlyn Scott; and great step-nephew, Kyler Scott.
A rosary will be prayed at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, April 10, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Memorials in Harlan’s memory will be designated at a later date and may be sent in care of the family.
To express your sympathy or for more information, please visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com.
