WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Richard W. Schmidt, 88, of White Pigeon, passed away early Thursday morning, Oct. 6, 2011, after a brief stay at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo.
He was born March 3, 1923, to Herman and Alta (Grimes) Schmidt at their farm in rural White Pigeon.
During World War II, he served in the 981st Ordnance Depot Company earning five bronze stars for campaigns in Europe and North Africa.
After returning home, he began a career in the building trades as a pipefitter.
In 1953, he married Jeanne Catton of White Pigeon, who preceded him in death in 2009. Also preceeding him were brothers Russell, Leland, Robert and William; and sister, Lulu, Ann and Kathryn.
His company and counsel will be greatly missed by his survivors, including sons Michael (Alice) Schmidt of Kentwood, Peter (Julie) Schmidt of Kalamazoo; Patrick Schmidt of Washington DC, Brad Schmidt of Kalamazoo; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Schmidt was a longtime member of the VFW, the American Legion and Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 357.
He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan and enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening. After high school, he played baseball for the local Industrial League. He was a past Elks member and Little League coach.
Visitation is from 5-8 p.m. Sunday at Farrand Funeral Home in White Pigeon, where services are at 11 a.m. Monday, with the Rev. Wilbur Brandli officiating. Interment will take place in White Pigeon Township Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to the White Pigeon United Methodist Church or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.
