Antone Gilbert Schmutz

St. George, Utah.  Antone Gilbert Schmutz, 68, was born on August 28, 1955, in Lancaster, California to William J. and Georgia Lou Heaton Schmutz.  He returned home to his Heavenly Father, March 22, 2024, where he was surely greeted with open arms by his parents and a host of loved ones who he knew through his love of family history.

Gilbert moved with his parents to Kanab, Utah when he was a little boy. He enjoyed the rural life of Kanab and spent many hours with close neighbors and his many extended family in the Southern Utah region. After graduating from high school, he went to school at Dixie College in St. George, Utah, and later served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He eventually returned to St. George where he met his wife, Bertie Sue Bowler. They were married on June 16, 1984. They first lived in Veyo, Utah and later moved to St. George and bought his grandpa Schmutz’s home. It quickly became a favorite of both their families to enjoy watching the 4^th of July fireworks at the Dixie Sun Bowl.

Gilbert was named for his two grandfathers and was known as “Tone” by his parents and family. He was in Kindergarten when his mother saw he was signing his name “Gilbert” on his school papers. Not only did he choose to go by the name of his grandfather Heaton, but he was also very much like him in character.

Gilbert was a quiet man, never saying much. He was a calming influence with everyone he interacted with. His greatest skills included being a good listener and kindness. He accepted you for who you were and how you lived without reservation. He was a favorite among his family and friends, including his family of co-workers at Lowes. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend the milestones in the lives of his nephews and nieces. It was a treat to be in his presence.

Gilbert loved his family and that included his ancestors that went before him.  He had a great knowledge of family history. He could answer any question we had about our ancestors, and he knew their stories. He especially enjoyed time at the family home, the Big House, in Moccasin, Arizona, where spent many hours working and enjoying the peace, often with his brother, Andy.  

Gilbert was a loving husband and cared deeply for Bertie Sue. They enjoyed family gatherings and traveling together. He became her steadfast supporter through her health challenges. 

Gilbert is survived by his wife Bertie Sue, St. George, Utah; his brothers and sisters, John (Peggy), Elizabeth (Rick), Andy (Andrea). Sharon, Nancy (Jon), and Rachel (Jeff), his in-laws; Fenton and Bob, sister, Brenda (Jay) and his many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 12:00 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Meeting house in Veyo, Utah, 176 E. Center St. with a viewing held at 10:30 am. 

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff Street, St. George, Utah. 435-673-2454.

Family and friends are invited to sign Gilbert’s online guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com