Bernard William Schmitt

Schmitt was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Wheeling on May 28, 1955, by Bishop Thomas John McDonnell.

Schmitt's first assignment after his ordination was as associate pastor of the cathedral, while also serving as master of ceremonies to Archbishop John Swint.

There, he was actively involved in the education and the formation of the students and families at the parish school.

[2] John Paul II accepted Schmitt's resignation as bishop of Wheeling-Charleston on December 9, 2004.

The chief celebrant and homilist at the funeral was his successor, Bishop Michael Bransfield.