Obituary of Eric James Schechtel

Eric James Schechtel of Denzil, Saskatchewan unexpectedly passed away on April 21, 2012 at the Provost Health Centre at the age of 61 years. Eric James Schechtel was born on May 22, 1950 to Amos and Betty Schechtel at St. Joseph's Hospital in Macklin, Saskatchewan. He attended Palm School until it closed in 1964 then went on to finish his education at Denzil Sacred Heart School. After his school days, Eric farmed with his father on the original homestead. They continued to farm together until his father retired in 1976. On July 9, 1977 Eric married Mary Lou Schmeiser in Mary Lou's hometown of Bruno, Saskatchewan. Together they were blessed with two daughters and two sons, Erin-Lou, Mara Lee, Jonathan and Jordan. In 1981, Eric rented out the farmland and purchased the grocery store in Denzil; Mary Lou have operated the store together since its purchase. Along with his dedication to the store, Eric was actively involved in the community serving as Mayor of Denzil, President of the Museum and was also a member of the Denzil Recreation Board. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of nearly 35 years, Mary Lou; children, Erin-Lou (Aaron) and their children, Kent & Ewan; Mara Lee (Tyson) and their son, Barrett; Jonathan and Jordan; sisters, Delphine, Celine, Carol (Jim), Kathy (Bill), Brenda (Paul); brother, Eldon (Elaine); parents in law, Percy & Louise Schmeiser; brothers in law, Vincent, Daniel (Maryanne), John (Leandra); sister in law, Mary Jane (Paul), Anna Marie (David); as well as many nieces, nephews and other relatives. Eric was predeceased by his parents, Amos & Betty; sister, Gwen Wiesner; brothers in law, Ed Degrande and Milton Makarowski.