Despite life obstacles, a Wisconsin man shows what being a true Packer fan is all about
By Dylan Eckhart
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WAUSAU, Wisconsin (WAOW) — Dean Schmitz, 54, has been a devoted Packers fan since his youth. Despite battling a rare brain cancer that impacts his daily life and cognition, his passion for the team remains strong.
Recently, Schmitz was selected as one of ten finalists for the Packers Fan Hall of Fame.
“My wife nominated me, and it was a complete honor. I just started crying, and… yeah, a complete honor,” Schmitz said.
Becky, Dean’s wife, along with their children Thomas and Anya, have been his biggest supporters. They have shared countless memories at numerous game days together.
Becky said there are endless stories within Schmitz’s mind, though the challenges he faces affect his ability to communicate. To truly understand his devotion to the Packers, one only needs to visit his man cave.
Dean Schmitz Packers FAN Hall of Fame nominee
“Down here, this was kind of a blank slate when I first bought the house,” Schmitz said.
The once-empty space is now filled with memorabilia, including an autographed football, a Brett Favre jersey, and reminders of past trips like the Packers’ trip to London in 2022, which Dean and Becky attended.
“Against the Giants there were more Packers fans then, from all over. It felt like a home game,” Schmitz said.
His passion for the Packers is unwavering, and he says he would eagerly watch them overseas again. Schmitz has met some of his favorite players and NFL figures, sharing these opportunities with his family.
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