Remembering Eugene Schmidt (February 13, 1931 — January 3, 2019)

Saturday, January 19, 2019

My grandfather, Eugene Schmidt, was born in Lake Crystal, MN on February 13th, 1931 to Lester and Ethel. He served his country in the Korean War and worked for the the Minnesota Department of Transportation most of his life. He was a generous and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He passed away January 3rd, 2019 at the age of 87 with his wife of 64 years, Ramona, by his side.

He is survived by wife Ramona, children Dawn Michels, Lonna-Jean (Rick) Schmidt-Nelson, Joe (Diane) Schmidt, Jim (Cecilia) Schmidt, Chris Schmidt, Michael (Steven) Schmidt, 24 grand children, many great-grandchildren. His body is interred at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Here is what my mother had to say about his passing:

Even though one knows eventually you will lose your parents from this life to the next and you spend your best quality time, pray for them, love them - you are never quite ready. My dad was the most wonderful role model a daughter could ask for. He is a tough act to follow for one’s spouse or sons. He was kind, and fun loving, he was gentle but firm on things he felt strongly about, he was patient with teaching us, but a little impatient with doing less than our best. He taught us to love those in our lives deeply and protect them and their feelings with all his being. He was humble, giving, strong, smart, but the most important thing I learned from him was unprecedented love for my mom - his wife of 64+ years. My heartbreak is for her, as I know dad is resting in the arms of our father and no longer suffering his bodily pain, but the love of his life, is not quite sure what to do. So we will try to lift her up on eagle’s wings and pray for her calm transition in life.They loved each other like nothing I have ever seen before. As we wonder through pictures - this one says it all. Dad we love you and will do our best to care for mom.