John David Schmelzer

John David Schmelzer, 87, of Rio Rancho entered eternal life Saturday, January 26, 2019.  Dave, as he was known to family and friends, was born in Delphos, OH on Monday, November 30, 1931 to Bertha E. Raabe and Linus H. Schmelzer.  Dave proudly served in the Army during the Korean War. In 1985 he retired as a teacher from Mayfield High School in Las Cruces, NM, where he taught honors math, coached girls basketball and tennis.  Dave also taught math at the Dona Ana Branch for ten years.  Dave loved going to baseball games, enjoyed traveling, bowling, and playing cards.  Dave’s favorite baseball team was the Detroit Tigers.  He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.  Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Maria J. Schmelzer; his children, Connie (Mark) Watts, Jamie (Matt) Whetsell, and Dan Schmelzer; his step-children, Annamarie (Matt) Bernard, Mary Jo Velasquez, and Frank Trevino; his brother, Charles (Joann) Schmelzer; 14 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.  Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Bertha E. Raabe and Linus H. Schmelzer; his sister, Patti Schmelzer Heiing; and nephews.  The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to family and friends who have been so loving and supportive.

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, February 4, 2019, 1:00 p.m., at FRENCH - Rio Rancho.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to Wounded Warriors Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.