Gregory "Greg" Schmitke

Both the prayer service and funeral will be available to view via the church YouTube site.  Please click on this link close to the time of the service.

https://www.youtube.com/@st.paulsfreelutheran9930

Gregory Irvin Schmitke was born on October 12, 1959, to Irvin and Janice (Hall) Schmitke in Thief River Falls, MN.

Greg gave his life to Jesus at an early age and demonstrated his passion for people by leading a bible study for fellow students while in high school. Greg was never afraid to talk to anyone about his Savior. Greg’s purpose on this earth was to make sure everyone knew how to receive Jesus as their Savior and spend eternity in Heaven.

Greg graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls in 1978. After graduation, Greg attended and graduated from the Association Free Lutheran Bible School (AFLBS) from 1978-1979 and again in 1983-1984. Greg also attended and graduated from the Brown Institute for Radio in 1986 and had a part time job at WTCN in Stillwater, MN.

Greg met and fell in love with Renate Vatthauer from Plummer, MN. They were married on December 4, 1982. Greg loved his wife with his whole being. To them were born Joshua, Benjamin, and Ruth.

Greg grew up with av-gas in his veins, so it was no wonder that he went to work for the airlines. Greg worked for Republic Airlines and Northwest Airlines for 21 years before God opened the door for his second career at Northwestern Media (KFNW Radio/Life 97.9). Greg wore many hats at KFNW, including on air personality. Greg was promoted to Chief Engineer with Northwestern Media. He learned the engineering side of radio from the meticulous teachings of Gary Ellingson.

Greg’s love for motorcycles started at an early age. He purchased his first bike in 1984 from Renate’s brother. Greg later went on to join the Christian Motorcyclists Association where he combined his love for Jesus and bikes. He had many brothers and sisters within the biking community and could be found on many charity rides and at Wednesday Bike Nights. Rarely did you see him without his ‘colors’ on.

Greg had a heart attack in 2021 and again in 2022, but he did not let those events slow him down. He enjoyed yearly trips with his fellow engineers from Northwestern Media, spending time with his two boys and their families, vacationing with Renate at their daughter’s home (cruising on the boat), the Delleneva’s lake home, playing many card games with friends, and exploring Minnesota and the Dakotas with Renate on the bike.

Greg loved sharing stories and memories with his family and friends, never missing a detail.

Greg is survived by his wife of 41 years, Renate; his children: Joshua, Moorhead, MN, Ben (Megan) Ulen, MN, and Ruth (Anders) Gredvig, Prescott, WI;  his grandchildren: Naomie, Leah, William, Isaac, Nora, Adeline, and Eleanor; his brother, Mark (Kim); sister, Kristi Schmitke; his brothers-in-law: Neilden (Pam) and Edlyn (Sandra) Vatthauer; 3 nephews; 12 nieces; 17 grand nephews and 18 grandnieces. Greg also has many brothers and sisters in the biking community: Lowell (Brenda) Watt, Paul (Brenda) Dellaneva.

Greg will be laid to rest at Rindal Cemetery in Newfolden, MN, next to his parents and grandparents.

Memorials in Greg’s name can be sent to the Free Lutheran Association of Pilot Supporters (FLAPS) for his love of aviation, and Bay Broadcasting, where he served on the Board.  Both missions are located at 3110 East Medicine Lake Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55441.

Visitation for Greg will be Tuesday, January 30, 2024, from 5 - 7 PM, with a prayer service and time of sharing at 7 PM, in St. Paul's Free Lutheran Church, Fargo.  His funeral will be Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at 2 PM, in the church.