Gerald Allen Schmidt, 85, passed away at the Hospice House of Reno County in Hutchinson on April 7, 2022.
He was born on May 14, 1936 to Emery and Leona Schmidt in Rural Stafford County. He attended York Center School, a one room school house through 8th grade, and then graduated from Stafford High School in 1954. He married Carole Louise Dreiling on January 24, 1959, at which time, they began their 50 year life journey together.
Gerald had many passions, including flying, gardening, a weed free/green yard, horses, dogs, cats and KU Basketball. He fed birds, squirrels, turkeys, deer and any other critters that wondered into his yard. Farming was in his blood and working as a custom harvester was a result of his agriculture background. His vehicles and equipment were kept spotless and polished. However, his greatest passion of all was his family. There was no doubt he felt his two kids, six grandkids and nine great grandkids were his greatest accomplishments in life and they all brought him so much joy!
He was preceded in death by his parents, Emery and Leona Schmidt, an infant sister, his loving wife, Carole Schmidt and Grandson Boe Keesling, along with many other family and friends.
Surviving family members include son Brad Schmidt (Kelly Schmidt) of Arlington. and daughter Kathi Keesling (Jeff Keesling) of Sylvia. Six grandkids; Jeramie Schmidt, Chadd Schmidt (Jesse) and Kecia Schmidt, all of Arlington; Erica Keesling, (wife of Boe), Lenexa; Brett Keesling (Shelly), Spearville; and Bree Jones (Brandon), Pratt. Nine great grandkids, Piper and Baron Schmidt, Avaree & Emersyn Keesling, Harrison, Layna and Millie Gene Keesling, Jaxton and Eli Jones. Gerald also has a surviving sister, Nadine Fuller (KO), McPherson, and a surviving brother, Larry Schmidt (Sylvia)
Funeral service will be 3:00 p.m., Monday, April 11 at Minnis Chapel, Stafford. The family will receive friends Sunday 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home.