Lana K. Schmitz

Lana K. (Pierson) Schmitz, 70, of Saint Anne, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, in Kankakee, Illinois. She was born on January 31, 1956, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Charles and Gloria (Gorbert)Pierson. Lana graduated from Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School with the Class of 1974. For more than 20 years, Lana worked as an accountant for NAPA Auto Parts (f/k/a Christiansen Auto Parts) in Kankakee, where she was respected for her dedication and strong work ethic. A Christian by faith, Lana found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved gardening, playing cards, spending time outdoors, listening to live music, and dancing. She was a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. Above all else, Lana cherished spending time with her family, fiancé, and friends, creating countless memories that will be treasured forever. She shared her life with her beloved fiancé, Al Hertzberger of Bloomington, Illinois. Lana is survived by her sons, Paul (Diana) Schmitz of Surprise, Arizona, and James (Ashley) Schmitz of Saint Anne, Illinois, and Allan Hertzberger of Bloomington, Illinois; her sister, Julie Leary of Morris, Illinois; her brothers, David (Dolores) Pierson of Kankakee and Daniel (Karen) Pierson of Bourbonnais; her grandchildren, Griffin Schmitz, Hannah Scroggins, and Lexi Scroggins; along with many extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Gloria Pierson, and her sister and brother-in-law, Vicki and Albert Sparrow. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Bourbonnais Sportsman’s Club, 2672 Chippewa Drive, Bourbonnais, Illinois 60914, from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in accordance with the wishes of the family.