Walter J. Schmidt, 84, of Racine, received the promise of eternal life on December 25, 2013. He was born in Racine on November 18, 1929, son of the late Christian and Marie (nee: Schaeffer) Schmidt.
Walter was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary Jane (nee: Phillips) Schmidt, on June 17, 1950, at St. Lucy Catholic Church in Racine.
Walter faithfully and honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he worked assembling autos at American Motors and was a parts manager for Chrysler until his retirement. Walter was a member of UCT (United Commercial Travelers) #337 in Racine. He was an avid woodworker and made many treasures for his family, especially lawn furniture, wishing wells, and custom furniture. He also had a green thumb and enjoyed his growing fruits and vegetables. Walter even passed on his love and knowledge of plants to his grandchildren. He was a championship bowler and was a member of the Castle Lanes Bowling league for many years. On Thursdays, you could find Walter with his buddies playing Sheepshead or playing golf with the “Old Farts Golf Club”. Above all, he was a family man and cherished the time spent with his family. Walter will be dearly missed.
Walter leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 63 years, Mary Jane Schmidt of Racine; children, Bill (Lenora) Schmidt of Kenosha, Steven (Gail) Schmidt of Nashua, NH, David (Linda) Schmidt of Racine; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Marie Chappy; other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.
In addition to his parents, Walter is preceded in death by his sisters, Sophie Joerres, Molly Chappy, Emily Hansen; brothers, Carl (infant) and John Schmidt.
A celebration of Walter’s life will take place on Monday, December 30, 2013, 11:00 am, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 2219 Washington Avenue, with Rev. Ron Ballew officiating. Visitation will take place on Sunday, December 29, 2103, 2:00pm until 5:00pm, at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home and Crematory, 4600 County Line Road. Visitation will continue in church on Monday from 10:00am until the time of the service. Interment will take place after the service on Monday at Sunset Ridge Memorial Park in Kenosha.
Sign the Guestbook