Randy Louis Schmitz, age 71, of Lakeville, MN, passed away peacefully with family at his side on January 27, 2026, in Edina, MN. Randy was born on March 11, 1954, in Red Lake Falls, MN, to Louie and Jean (née Hesse) Schmitz. He graduated from Farmington High School in 1972 and went on to attend Northland Junior College, Mankato State, and the University of Wisconsin–River Falls before earning his master's degree in elementary education from the University of Minnesota.

Randy married the love of his life, Nancy Betlach, on December 28, 1985, at Prince of Peace Church in Burnsville. He spent his professional life as an elementary physical education teacher, where he was known for his steady presence, encouragement, and genuine care for every child. Randy led with his heart, and his nurturing and caring personality shone through in all that he did. In his teaching and coaching, he emphasized life lessons that impacted all who he encountered. He devoted decades to coaching, including varsity softball in Lakeville for 30 years, varsity softball in Farmington for 12 years, and varsity boys' hockey at Lakeville and Lakeville North for 24 years. In recognition of his impact on the sport and the countless athletes he mentored, Randy was inducted into the Minnesota Hockey Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2018.

Outside of work and coaching, Randy enjoyed travel, trying new restaurants, biking, and most of all, spending time with family and friends. He shared a special relationship with his many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, and they brought him great joy throughout his life.
Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Louie and Jean Schmitz. He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy; siblings Sandy (Dan Pudil), Bill (Sue), Ricky (Chad), Shelly, Tom (Missy), Bobby (Michelle), Jody (Bob Slette), and Lisa; brother- and sister-in-law Julie (Greg) Aune and Mike (Kathy) Betlach; and numerous nieces, nephews, former students, athletes, and friends whose lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at St. John's Lutheran Church, 20165 Heath Avenue, Lakeville, MN, with a gathering of family and friends beginning at 11:30 AM.

Gifts in Randy's memory may be made to the Louis Schmitz Foundation and St. John's Lutheran Church.

White Funeral Home 952-469-2723
Condolences at: www.whitefuneralhomes.com