Todd Schmitgall

One day God was sitting by his pearly gates and he thought…”I need a fellow up here not too old, not too young,” and he had a long list.

Then God said, “I need him to have a love for riding horses but also play a round of golf or two with friends,” and the list became shorter.

Then God said, “I need for him to be a carpenter, to make beautiful furniture, and be exceptionally creative,” and the list became even shorter.

Then God said, “I need him to be able to cook up a storm, fry lots of chicken, and pickle and fry those gizzards!” And the list became shorter.

Then God said, “I need him to love living in a small town and contribute to the town’s success.” And the list got even shorter.

Then God said, “I need him to love to talk to people, never know a stranger, and make people laugh – also laughing with them.”

And God said, “Only one person is on that list: Todd! Come on home to me.” And he wrapped his loving arms around him and said, “Gage is here waiting for you”.

Todd Schmitgall died unexpectedly of natural causes at age 60. He was born on August 8, 1965, to Kathryn (Proehl) and Michael Schmitgall of Minier, Illinois, who survive him. He was the father of three children: Samantha (Cody) VanHoose of Missouri, Thorne Klein of Colorado, and Gage Klein, who preceded him in death. He is also survived by his sisters, Michele (Nathan) Herrmann of Bloomington, Illinois, and Lura (Bill) Ludolph of Edwards, Illinois, as well as five nieces and nephews who lovingly called him their “Funcle.”

Todd attended Olympia High School and graduated in 1983. He later studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and Florida International University, earning his chef’s degree. After working in several restaurants, he became an entrepreneur and took over the Village Inn in Minier following his parents’ retirement. He later stepped away from cooking to drive semis and train other drivers, but his passion for the kitchen eventually called him back. In 2022, he opened his own restaurant in Emden, Illinois, the Dovetail Inn.

Todd was an avid golfer and rarely played without his lifelong friends Barry, Dickie, Jordan, and Michael. Their friendship remained strong through the years, and he looked forward to every Sunday spent with them on the course. His clubs will take one final ride with his friends.

Todd was surrounded by loyal employees, including his right-hand man in the kitchen, Leo. He treasured his faithful customers and countless friends, and he found joy in those daily connections. He was also blessed with supporters throughout his life, including his Aunt Marsha Kay, who championed his success from the time he was a little boy.

Todd’s family is deeply grateful for the kind words, condolences, and support he received over the years. They are comforted by the love so many people had for him. Special thanks to Mike, Gale, and Randy for their friendship.

Private services will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Emden Sons of the American Legion or the Emden Fire Department.

Raise a glass and smile in memory of Todd.

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