John A. Schmaing

John Allen “Little Wolf” Schmaing of Berlin, NH, passed away Friday, April 12^th, at Androscoggin Valley Hospital in Berlin, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Close friends and the love of his life Romona were by his side.  

John was born in Billings, Montana February 14^th, 1963. He was raised by Linda and Axel Schmaing. He attended school in Havre, Montana. In High School he was an athlete as a center on the football team and wrestled heavyweight. When he graduated from high school he then served in the United States Air Force, and eventually moved to Berlin, NH, managing the Berlin Dojo of Villari’s Studios of Self Defense.

John would then branch off on his own and became the founder of the School of the Silent Warrior. He was a prolific student of various martial arts, combining them to create his own style, Ninpo Chuan Fa, which he taught, along with other martial and energy arts. He would continue his studies training with various other martial artists, and took great pride in the students that attended his school.

John would close the downtown school location in 2005, opting to then teach private and small classes at home and other local places. He did this while enjoying his career in the Berlin Public School system as a Paraprofessional and Science Teacher. He took great pride in the accomplishments of his students. He was also a bass guitar player, where he enjoyed playing in various rock and jazz groups.

John received his education at Havre High School Montana, College of USAF, American College of Metaphysical Theology, and University of New Hampshire with a Bachelor's Degree in Science.

John is survived by his longtime companion Romona Lamontagne of Berlin, NH. Stepson; Lee Lamontagne of Manchester, NH. Stepdaughter; Shelley McAffee of Ohio. Son; Kyle Schmaing of WA, Daughter; Kathe Schmaing of MT,  Sister; Kimberly Westenskow of Arizona, Brother; Wade Schmaing of MT, Ex-Wife; Peggy Gillespie of WA,  Grandsons; Wolfgang and Reinhard Schmaing of WA.  John is also survived by his nieces, uncles, close friends, and the many students he had the joy of teaching over the years.

John was predeceased by his parents; Linda and Axel Schmaing, his biological father; Daniel Coakley, Ex-Wife; Rachel Charron, and Stepdaughter; Jessica Nadeau-Moore.

A celebration of life will be held at Bryant Funeral Home in Berlin, NH on May 3^rd at 3pm. Family, friends, students, and coworkers are invited to come together and share stories about John. John's ashes will be scattered by his close family and friends later in a private ceremony.