John Andrew Schmittou

John Andrew Schmittou, a charismatic soul and a beacon of resilience, passed away on April 19, 2024, at the age of 91. Born in Nashville, TN, on November 1, 1932, John lived a life that was as vibrant and captivating as the chords he strummed on his beloved guitar. Despite the trials life threw at him, John retained a spark of tenacity and creativity that endeared him to those around him. He was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life, from sharing stories of his youth to casting a line into a peaceful lake. As Mark Twain once said, “The secret of success is making your vocation your vacation,” and for John, his love for music and storytelling was not just a hobby, but a way of life.

With honor and dedication, John proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years, embodying the highest ideals of service, and commitment.

John was a talented accountant who served the finance industry with a dedication that was truly commendable. His work ethic was matched only by his love for his family and music, two aspects of his life that brought him immense joy. A master of the guitar, fiddle, piano, and keyboard, John's creative spirit was infectious. It was not uncommon to see him surrounded by his grandkids, a guitar in hand, enchanting them with melodies interwoven with tales from his past. His love for music was a gift he shared generously, and his resilience was a lesson he lived by example.

As we remember John, let us celebrate his life and the qualities that made him special. His charismatic personality, his talent in music and accounting, his creative spirit, and his resilient nature made him a truly remarkable individual. His life serves as a testament to the fact that even in the face of adversity, one can find joy and meaning. As Maya Angelou aptly put it, "You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them." John Schmittou was a living embodiment of this spirit, and his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.

We invite you to share your fondest memories of John and upload photos to his memorial page. It is through these shared moments that we keep his spirit alive and honor the extraordinary life he lived.