John Robert Schmertz, Jr.

Obituary John R. Schmertz, Jr. 1929 ~ 2014 John R. and Elizabeth Schmertz welcomed John R. Jr. (Jack) into this world 85 years ago in New York City. Jack attended Regis High School and Holy Cross College on a Navy ROTC scholarship, spending several years in active duty and twenty years in the Reserves. He attended Georgetown University Law School and worked as an assistant U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia and in private practice before accepting an invitation to teach at Georgetown University Law School which he did for 35 years. He continued to write The Federal Rules of Evidence News and the International Law Update up until his final illness. Despite his scholarship, Jack's priority was always the happiness and wellbeing of his wife, Mary, his four children, friends, and others. He spent years reading to his family in the evenings and attending his children's school, athletic, and music events. He and Mary had recently moved from Rockville, MD to Tacoma, WA to be closer to them. All who knew Jack praised his graciousness, integrity, kindness, intelligence, smile, and sense of humor. Jack's parents and his nephew, Paul Stacom, predecease him. His beloved wife, Mary McKeown Schmertz, of 48 happy years, survives him as well as their four children and families: children, Christine Navarro (Rudy), John Schmertz (Laurie), Carolyn Schmertz, Phil Schmertz; grandchildren Mia Navarro and Francesca Navarro; and great-granddaughter, Adaline Wells. He also leaves his sister Elizabeth (Betty) Stacom of Atlanta, nephews, nieces, and their families. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, September 4, 2014 at 9:00 AM at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Tacoma with a viewing occurring the hour before Mass. Burial will take place at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Franciscan Foundation of Tacoma in honor of the nurses, doctors, and staff on the 6th floor D ICU unit at St. Joseph's hospital who lovingly ministered to his body, spirit, and his family in his final days. Please leave online condolences at www.gaffneycares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.