Richard H. Schmidt

Richard Harold Schmidt 76, of Saint Charles, Missouri was called to his heavenly home on February 26, 2021. He passed peacefully at St. Clare Hospital, in Fenton, Missouri with his loving friend Norma at his side.

Richard (Dick) was born at home on a blustery, winter evening in New Troy, Michigan on December 25, 1944 to Louis and Lottie (Myrda) Schmidt, the third of five sons, in a small town just east of Lake Michigan.

He is survived by his significant other Norma (Gnodtke) Reitz, his daughters Richele (Joe) Harrington, Cynthia Aldrich, and son Jason (Sara) Schmidt. Grandchildren Joyee, Maloree, Adeen, & Carteer who will miss him dearly. Grandchildren Alexa, Madysen, Coveney, Brittany, & Emma. He was the proud and doting great-grandfather of Paizely, Gannon, & Emberly, 7 additional great-grandchildren, and  surviving brothers Larry (Nerma) Schmidt, and Randy (Wanda) Schmidt.

He was preceded in death by his wife Michele, his parents Louis & Lottie Schmidt, his brothers Gary and Duane, his grandson Weston Aldrich, and his son-inlaw Brian Aldrich.

Dick was a 1963 graduate of New Troy High School.  He was active and lettered in three sports.  He excelled in basketball and was frequently recognized for his outstanding performance by the local newspapers.  In three years he tallied over 850 points, and managed a phenomenal 15.7 average (before the 3 point shot) at the time the best in the county.  Dick Schmidt, New Troy's “Little Giant”, AKA “The Gunner” was selected by sportswriters New Troy's Athlete of the year.  Dick was also elected Most Athletic by his classmates.

Dick's love of sports and devotion continued as he played on league teams, coached Little League baseball, attended children and grandchildren's sporting events.  When he relocated to Missouri in 2009, he continued to be loyal to Notre Dame Football and his beloved White Sox; with fond memories of attending games with his father and brothers.

Dick was employed for 25 years with the Whirlpool Corporation, his last position was Product Sales Manager of the International Division; interacting with distributors in foreign countries and procurement personnel at military installations.

Dick's hobbies included his passion for fishing on Michigan lakes and rivers. He always looked forward to the annual trip to the U.P. with his brothers and several friends.  He enjoyed competitive golf with his friend Sonny when wintering in Florida.  He was on several golf leagues and found peace and tranquility fishing on Lake Eustis. Dick will be remembered for his love of watching Westerns, anything black and white on TV, and his passion for collecting an excessive amount of sports cards.

Dick was an Army Veteran who valiantly served his country during the Vietnam War.  He was honorably discharged receiving numerous medals.  His illness was directly related to his military service; once diagnosed with cancer he developed a compassion for children with cancer and faithfully supported St. Jude's.

Dick will fondly be remembered by all who knew him.  He never met a stranger.  He had a huge heart, an infectious smile, and sparkly blue eyes which endeared him too many.

Dick was baptized with the promise of Christ's resurrection and confirmed into his faith at Trinity Lutheran, Sawyer, Michigan.  A celebration of life and a memorial service will be held at a to be determined date.

Memorials in Dick's name may be made to Trinity Lutheran, 5791 Sawyer Rd,  Sawyer, MI 49125 or to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude, Memphis, TN 38105.