Nicholas L. Schmitt

September 13, 2025 | Age 93

Nicholas L. Schmitt, a lifelong Buffalonian whose life was defined by devotion to family, service to country, and commitment to community, passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on September 13, 2025.

Beloved husband of 53 years to the late Marlene (née Kieta), Nick was a pillar of strength and warmth to his children—Nick, Erika (Greg) Roberts, and Alex (Susie) and a cherished grandfather to Seryn, Sam, Stella, and Rosie. He was also a loving step-grandfather to Fabrizio and the late Giacomo, and a proud great-grandpa to twins Charlee and Adoreé.

Nick was the devoted brother of the late Dr. James “Bo” Schmitt (Kay), and is fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, cousins, colleagues and neighbors.

A man of intellect and integrity, Nick’s academic journey began at St. Paul’s School (Class of ’45), followed by St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute (Class of ’49), where he was a star football center and rower on the crew team at the West Side Rowing Club. He graduated from Canisius College in 1953, where he attended on an athletic scholarship and was a member of the DiGamma Honor Society.

After college, Nick proudly served his country as a First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict, stationed in Quantico, VA.

He later earned his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center in 1958. His legal career spanned over five decades, beginning at Buerger & O’Connor in Buffalo. In 1968, he joined the Peter J. Schmitt Company as the Assistant to the President, overseeing real estate and retail development, and later served as Corporate Secretary. In 1977, Nick transitioned to Niagara Frontier Services, where he became Director of Real Estate and subsequently Corporate Counsel for Tops Markets. He retired in 2012 after 52 years of distinguished service in law.

Nick was a member of the Erie County and New York State Bar Associations, the American Legion, and the Buffalo Yacht Club.

His athletic spirit endured throughout his life—he was a dedicated runner with the Belle Watling Running Club, competing in several races including marathons well into his later years. He was also an avid sailor and enjoyed playing golf around town with friends and is an official repeat winner of the Voorhees Avenue Open.

Nick lived a life of quiet dignity, unwavering loyalty, and boundless generosity. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, loved him, and were inspired by his example.

Family and friends may call on Thursday September 18, 2025 from 5-7pm at DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 3070 Delaware Ave. Kenmore, NY 14217. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday September 19, 2025 at 9:30am at St. Rose of Lima Church, 500 Parker Blvd. Buffalo, NY 14216. Please assemble at church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Paws for Love. Fond memories and condolences may be shared at www.denglerrobertspernakenmore.com.