He was born in Westphalia to Frank and Christine Fechtel Schanzmeyer. He was married on July 25, 1963 in Danielson, Connecticut to Jeanne D. Turcotte who survives at the home. He farmed in the Westphalia area all of his adult life. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Westphalia. Memorials are suggested to St. Joseph Catholic Church, P.O. Box 116, Westphalia, MO 65085.