A man whose happy and jovial spirit touched so many, and never complained up to the end. Donald passed away peacefully on May 20th, 2025 at the age of 95. He was the beloved husband to Vinita "Spurgeon" Schmidt (nee: Marlene), with whom he shared 55 wonderful years. Don was a loving father to Cheri (Garland) Bissell, Gary (Marlene) Schmidt, Terry (Mickey) Schmidt, and Steve (Jennifer) Schmidt. His legacy continues through his cherished grand and great grandchildren, Chris (Becky) Bissell - Hayden and Kiley, Brad (Danelle) Bissell - Gavin, Brady, Christian, and Andrew, Matt Bissell - Liam, Ryan Bissell, Emily Schmidt, Jacqui (Andrew) Sneed - Emma, Donald J "DJ" Schmidt, Nicole (Kyle) Beck - Bentley, Amanda, and Tyler Schmidt, with each receiving the annual "personalized" Christmas ornament he shopped for each year. Don was the son of John Henry Ludwig and Margaret Schmidt (nee: Erdin). Don was a beloved brother to Francis, Junior, Ken, Evelyn (Jones), Leroy, and Gerald Schmidt. Don was a beloved uncle, cousin, and friend to many.
Donald was a dedicated employee of McDonell Douglas, later Boeing, for 30 years. He supervised the building of fighter jets and missiles until his retirement in 1985. He was retired longer than he worked.
Don loved many sports, mainly playing baseball. He coached his kids to pay his skills and sportsmanship forward whenever he could. Don's main hobby was his cars and membership in the Horseless Carriage Club. He was a mainstay at the local car shows throughout the area with either his 1935 Ford Touring Sedan or his 1968 Ford Mustang. He loved the bravado, mingling with other motorheads, and winning his category or best in show.
A visitation will be held on June 4th, 2025, 10am-12pm, with a 12pm ceremony at Alexander-White-Mullen Funeral Home & Mt. Lebanon Cemetery, 11101 St Charles Rock Rd, St. Ann, MO 63074.
