Steve E. Schmitz, age 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Union, NJ on Monday , June 24, 2019 after a brief battle with cancer. Steve was born September 12, 1932 in Mannheim, Germany. Having emigrated to the United States in 1952, he spent a brief time in the Army stateside where he learned his trade and then settled in Queens, NY. He worked as a baker, pastry chef and cake decorator for over 30 years in the New York area. He is survived by his son – Stefan Schmitz of California, his daughter – Stefanie Szarek of Union, NJ, 4 grandchildren Tyler, Andrew, Peter and Elora, son-in-law Michael Szarek and his longtime companion Noris Torres. They along with a host of other relatives, friends, neighbors and acquaintances that will forever remember his resilience and positive spirit. A survivor of war and profound family loss at a young age, Steve renewed and maintained his positive spirit no matter what the situation, and he lived every moment simply to be involved with and helpful to others, always the first one to offer his help and energy. Steve’s role and presence in a loving home with 3 generations of family will be sorely missed. There will be a memorial gathering from 1 – 4 pm on June 29, 2019 at Bradley, Haeberle and Barth Funeral Home, 1100 Pine Avenue in Union, NJ. In lieu of flowers the family asks you to consider donations to Homeside Hospice or Greyhound Angels Adoption of New Jersey. For more info, or to send condolences, visit www.www.bradleyfuneralhomes.com