Jack Randall Ochsner: 1960 – 2024
Jack Randall Ochsner passed peacefully in his home, Wednesday morning, January 24, 2024. Jack was born in Lemmon, South Dakota on April 27,1960 and primarily grew up in Isabel, South Dakota.
Jack spent most of his adult life in Gillette, Wyoming and during that time he worked at the Lakeway Professional Center for 23 years.
Jack is known as a master of his trade and garnered a nickname as a ‘Jack of all Trades.’ Jack was an extremely dependable and hardworking man who would always be there to lend a hand. Jack was a man who left a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. He was someone you could always share a good laugh with, a fierce animal lover, and was tougher than nails as he was the youngest of seven. He was a loving father, brother, boyfriend, and friend.
Jack fought a courageous battle against pancreatic cancer and will always be remembered for all of his wonderful qualities and amazing stories. He is a hero to many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Jack joined his father and mother, Vermona and Lester Ochsner; along with his beloved pet, Molly.
His memory will live on in his son and daughter-in-law, Blake and Hailey Ochsner Kluz and fur babies Kira, Jake, and Melvin; girlfriend, Stephanie Boyd and companion Ranger; along with his siblings: Daryl Ochsner, Dennis Ochsner, Junella Alley, Karla Spiegelberg, Rhonda Wanke, and Nancy Printz; as well as their spouses and his many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held for Jack, February 10, at the Eagles in Gillette, Wyoming.
Lisa Kaye Schmit: 1962 – 2024
Lisa Kaye Schmit, 61, Gillette, Wyoming — a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend — left this earth peacefully into God’s hands on Monday, January 29, 2024.
Lisa was born April 15, 1962, in Huron, South Dakota, the daughter of Adeline J. Bowen. She was raised in Huron and graduated from Huron High School in 1981. Lisa was a multi-talented woman who was the exemplary model of a real woman who could do it all by herself. The quote, “You must think like a man, act like a lady, and work like a horse” is fitting to the astounding and hard-working woman Lisa was.
Lisa started at the packing plant and later went to the railroad as an engineer for 12 years. In time, she moved to Gillette to drive haul truck. In 2011, she was diagnosed with leukemia, which forced her into early retirement. She enjoyed spending her time with her children and grandchildren, being outside, and going to the river every summer. She wanted nothing more than to have fun and enjoy life surrounded by family and her beloved pets. Lisa was a devoted mother and grandmother who instilled great values into each of her children.
She was blessed with eight grandchildren: Grayson, Dalton, Layton, Jolene, Clair, Weston, Frankee and Mylee.
Lisa was immensely proud of her family and leaves behind a beautiful legacy; her children and grandchildren were her world. She was a vibrant and beautiful woman full of life, love, compassion and always believed the best in others. She spent her life spreading joy and kindness to everyone she met.
She was a beacon of warmth and a ray of sunshine, always offering a listening ear and supportive shoulder. Her infectious smile could light up a room and you could feel her smile in her voice over the phone. Her joyful personality, contagious laugh, and sparkling blue eyes will forever be cherished in our beautiful memories we have with her.
Lisa is preceded in death by her mother, Adeline Bowen; and oldest brother, Randy Peterson.
She is survived by her loving children: Travis (Krystal) Schmit, Josh (MiKelle) Schmit, and Jena (Jim) Smith; siblings: Shawn Salmon, Cindy Tompkins, Rick Bowen; eight grandchildren; a number of nieces, nephews, cousins; and a community of friends who will continue to honor her memory by living with the same grace and compassion she displayed every day.
Lisa was a true fighter to the very end. She fought the good fight, she finished the race, she kept the faith. A celebration of Lisa’s life will be planned by the family for a later date. She touched many lives, and will be truly missed. Rest in peace, dear Lisa. Your spirit and love will continue to blossom in our hearts. This is not goodbye, but see you again. We love you always and forever.
