Helmut Johann Baptist Schmeller, 89, of Manhattan, Kansas, passed away on November 10, 2021.
Born in Bärnau, Germany, to Karl Schmeller and Walburga Schmeller, née
Rosner. Growing up in Germany during WWII had a profound impact on his
life and career as a German Historian. After teaching for several years
at the Amberg American Elementary School for US Forces in Erlangen,
Germany he immigrated to the United States. Helmut went on to earn his
Ph.D. at Kansas State University and had a long career at Fort Hays
State University.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Wilma Schmeller, née
Chaney; son Erik and wife Bev; son Mark and wife Junko and grandson
William Takeshi. He also leaves behind his beloved sister Erna and
nieces Ingrid and Jutta.
Memorial Services will be held at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral
Home, 1616 Poyntz Ave. Manhattan, KS at 10AM on November 18, 2021.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the FHSU History
Department/General Scholarship Fund. To give to the scholarship go to
https://foundation.fhsu.edu/give/ ; then in the “Designation Area” use
the drop-down box to choose “other” and in comment box type in, “History
Dept./General Scholarship Fund”. Or mail to FHSU Foundation, PO Box
1060, Hays, KS 67601.
The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue,
Manhattan, Kansas, 66502, is assisting the family with the funeral
arrangements.