Mr. Ivan "Jiggs" Schmelter

June 8, 1930 - December 8, 2015

Ivan “Jiggs” Schmelter, 85, of Pilsen, passed away at his home on December 8, 2015. Ivan was born June 28, 1930 in Greenleaf to the late Arthur and Leola (Ferrington) Schmelter. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1948 and served as a corporal in the infantry division during the Korean War from 1948-1952. He married Jean Severin in 1958 and worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier, retiring in 1985. Ivan enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, and loved spending time with his family at his 40-acre tree farm in Pilsen. Ivan is survived by his wife, Jean, of fifty-eight years; son, Peter (Lisa) Schmelter; daughter, Beckie (Rockne) Spahn; three grandchildren, Whitney Spahn (special friend Matt), Nick Spahn and Brooke Schmelter (special friend Tom); and one sister, Elaine Cayo. Gathering of family and friends will be held from 10:00AM to 11:00AM on Saturday, December 12, 2015 at St. Joseph-St. John Church, E860 State Highway 29, Pilsen. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00AM with Rev. Dennis Drury officiating and full military honors to follow. In lieu of flowers and money, please contribute to the charity of your wishes. A special thank you to all of Ivan’s family and friends for helping him enjoy a good life. Ivan will be deeply missed.