Richard Charles (Wally) Schmidt, 72, Edwardsville, passed away on Saturday, September 11, 2021, at Hitz Memorial Home. He had been in poor health for the last 16 months.
He was born on November 20, 1948, in Highland, Illinois, to Roy and Dorothy (Frisse) Schmidt and grew up on the Schmidt farm in Pin Oak Township. He graduated from Edwardsville High School in 1966. He served in the Army from 1967-70, spending time in Vietnam. He graduated from SIUE, receiving a degree in Accounting. Rick retired from Continental Baking Company in 2002.
As the middle child of five children who were very close in age, Rick disliked any squabbling or discord of any type. He was truly a peaceful soul. He enjoyed spending time with his family as well as playing cards, horseshoes, and other games with his many friends. He was an avid baseball card collector since childhood. He was, also, a lifelong Cardinals fan.
Wally is survived by sisters, Sandy Ohren and Rosemary (Bruce) Dorsey, and brothers, Ron (Mary Jo) Schmidt and Rodger (Ruth) Schmidt. He had a special place in his heart for his nephews and nieces, Steve (Anna) Ohren, Angie (Anil) Kurian, Craig (Jennifer) Schmidt, Kristi (Steve) Hyten, Michael (Jennifer) Dorsey, Laura Ohren, Brad (Beth) Dorsey, Randy Schmidt, Eric (Heather) Schmidt, Tim (Michelle) Dorsey, Rachael (Mark) Zurliene, and Kari (Brett) Mares. He was also extremely proud of his numerous great nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Tom Ohren.
Memorials may be made to the Madison County C.A.R.E.E. (Agriculture in the classroom).
Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, September 17, at St. Boniface Church in Edwardsville, followed by a funeral Mass at 6 p.m.