Obituaries

Alexius John Schmoll, known to most as Alex, made his earthly departure on April 20th, 2024 at the age of 76. Alex was born in Highland Park, Michigan on July 16th, 1947. In his words, “July 16th - the day the atomic bomb was tested and the day I was born!“ Alex grew up in Detroit with his parents, Frederick and Virginia Schmoll (Ward) and his brother Fred.

After a short stay in the Navy, he met the love of his life, Hilda, at 18 and they said their lifelong vows in a double wedding on May 6th, 1967 at the budding age of 19 years old. An animal lover through and through and a young car aficionado, the first thing Alex did soon after getting married was adopt a dog and buy a Ford Mustang. He went on to become a skilled mechanic - Hilda and his kids still rave about his MacGyver-like jerry-rigging skills. After more than a decade in retail, Alex became his own boss as co-owner with Hilda of The Hardware Store in Redford, Michigan. God continued directing his life, though. He led Alex, an absolute lover of learning, back to college where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and went on to graduate with a Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling from Wayne State University.

Alex spent the next 30 years working as a Psychologist. He specialized in forensics and substance abuse, working with the whole gamut of drug-abuse clients from drunk drivers and first offenders to those newly-released from prison. Alex, who carried a passion for teaching, also taught Psychology to college students as a side job. Alex leaves behind two adult children, Jonathan (Kim) and Heidi (Danny), who grew up with some pretty convincing stories to go with the “Don’t do drugs message.“

Alex handled life’s health issues - and he had some doozies with open-heart surgery in 2002, brain coiling in 2006, and back surgery in 2020 - with dignity, acceptance, and a “Let’s figure out how to deal with this“ attitude. He took on his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in December 2023 in much the same way. While having a time-stamp on life was jarring and unexpected, it allowed Alex and those he loved so dearly to have many open, heartwarming, funny, emotional, and meaningful conversations. Alex’s faith was a significant source of strength and comfort through his cancer diagnosis and throughout his life, giving him an opportunity and desire to reflect on his life and prepare for his earthly departure. He was so thankful for each of the beautiful visits and calls he received while battling cancer. He was especially grateful to his “angel“ and wife, Hilda, for standing by his side, not only through his diagnosis and care, but also for all of the almost 57 years that went before.

Alex never let go of his thirst for learning, passionately following along with the making of the new Gordie Howe Bridge in downtown Detroit during his last few months of life. More than a few of us exclaimed “I didn’t know they were building a new bridge!“ He remained a teacher until the end. Alex left us with innumerous words of wisdom that we will hold on to and savor with comfort until we see him again.

In addition to his wife, Hilda, and two children, Jon and Heidi, he also leaves behind his 4 grandchildren, Gabriel, Miranda, Elenor, and Cora, three sister-in-laws, 8 nieces and nephews, and a step-brother and sister.

Memorial Service will take place May 25, 2024; 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 46001 Warren Road, Canton, Michigan 48187.

Interment will take place at Glen Eden Memorial Park, Cemtery, 35667 Eight Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to Angela Hospice.