R. William Schmidt, a Fort Wayne, Indiana native was 89 years of age when he passed from this life on Saturday, November 30, 2024,15 days before his 90th birthday. He was a son of the late August F. & Ruth Schmidt.
"Bill", as he was known to many, was employed by Magnavox as Information Systems Manager and retired from Essex in August of 1991. He was owner and President of R W Schmidt Material Handling for 30 years until his passing.
He married Marsha K. on June 1, 1974 and celebrated their 50th Anniversary in 2024. Bill was an avid runner throughout his life. He completed all road rallies including marathons and the Boston Marathon. In 1981 Bill set an age record in 10k race for the U.S. and was registered with the National Running Data Center. He was an original member of the Fort Wayne Track Club and a former usher and greeter at Blackhawk Ministries.
He leaves to cherish many memories to his wife, Marsha; children, Gregory (Emma), Todd (Tiffany), Scott (Rhonda), Matt Schmidt and Michelle (Mark) Ahrens; 12 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Janet (Greg) Van Horn and friends.
His daughter, Theresa, also preceded him in death.
A Celebration of Life Visitation for "Bill" will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Maplewood Park, 4017 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne, 46815.
Preferred memorials are to the Wounded Warrior Project. Fond memories of "Bill" may be shared at www.mccombandsons.com for the family.
A burial for "Bill" will be held privately at a later date.
