The devastating news of the tragic death of 14-year-old Kelli Schmitz, a vibrant and spirited basketball cheerleader from Don Bosco High School, shook the Cedar Falls community on a typical Tuesday morning on 25th February 2025.
Kelli’s life was cut short in a tragic two-vehicle crash in Black Hawk County, leaving behind a family and community heartbroken and in mourning.
According to the press release by the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office on its official Facebook page, the accident occurred in the 8000 block of Poyner Road in Black Hawk County, Iowa.
At approximately 7:13 a.m., Black Hawk County deputies were dispatched to the scene of a crash involving two vehicles: a Jeep Cherokee and a Pontiac Sunfire.
Upon arrival, the deputies were met with harrowing scenery, but fortunately, the 22-year-old female driver had managed to exit the vehicle safely.
However, the situation was far worse for the driver of the Pontiac Sunfire, 14-year-old Kelli Schmitz. She was trapped inside the vehicle and had suffered critical injuries.
Upon arrival, Black Hawk County deputies found the Jeep fully engulfed in flames, with the 22-year-old female driver having exited the vehicle.
Despite the best efforts of the medical team, Kelli’s injuries were too severe, and she ultimately succumbed to them.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and authorities have not released the identities of those involved.
Kelli Was The Cheerleader For Don Bosco High School’s Boys And Girls Basketball Teams
Her presence at every home game was a beacon of enthusiasm and support, and her favorite color, purple, symbolized her spirit.
In a heartfelt gesture, the DB Boys Basketball team asked everyone to wear purple during their rescheduled District final game at Independence to honor Kelli’s memory and support her grieving family.
The news of Kelli’s passing sent shockwaves through the community, with many coming forward to share their condolences and memories of her.
Carol Even Berry, a close family friend, remembered Kelli fondly, highlighting her bright personality and the joy she brought to those around her.
Via Facebook
“Kelli was such a bright light. I’ll cherish the memories of her little high fives and hugs after coming back from communion with her parents. Even after she left my school building she always greeted me with a cheerful “Hi Ms. Berry!” whenever we ran into each other.
Sending so much love and prayers to Kelli’s family and our Bosco community during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Kelli. Fly high! 🙏🏼💔”
In the face of this unimaginable loss, the community has rallied around Kelli’s family, including her parents, Kurt and Ann Schmitz, and siblings.
A GoFundMe campaign was set up to help with funeral expenses and a memorial in Kelli’s honor, aiming to raise $6,500.
Over $5K has been raised, with more donations expected to pour in as the community continues to show its support.
Kelli’s tragic death has left a void in the lives of those who knew her, but her memory will continue to inspire and uplift the community.
As the Don Bosco High School community and beyond come together to mourn and celebrate Kelli’s life, they are reminded of the impact one person can have on so many lives.
In the words of those who knew her, Kelli was a shining star whose light will never fade.
Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched, and her memory will be honored in the hearts of all who knew her. Rest in peace, Kelli. Fly high!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In November 2024, Kelli and her friends were honored to attend the Augustana Band Fest, a memorable experience that showcased her love for music and community events.
- Kelli’s mother, Ann Puffett Schmitz, is a Technology Coordinator and Computer Science Teacher for grades 9-12 at Cedar Valley Catholic Schools.
- Alongside Kelli, she had three other siblings: Tyler, David, and Samantha, who all attended the same school.
