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Howard Schmidt
February 18, 1952 - June 6, 2024
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Howard Schmidt died peacefully at home in Duncan BC after living 7 years with a rare degenerative neurological disorder. He was 72 years old.
He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Jerri, their children Ian, Jesse, Eric (Malva), his grandchildren Logan and Emma; his siblings Joanne (Dale), Warren (Barb), Kathy (Paul), Janet (Steve); his in-laws Shelly (Paul), Glen (Kate). He also leaves behind 7 nieces, 8 nephews and their 18 children. Howard was predeceased by his parents Ernie and Leona Schmidt and his in-laws Corrine and Glen Hollingshead.
Howard was born on February 18th 1952 in Saskatoon Saskatchewan. He spent his formative years in Zaire (Belgian Congo) with his medical missionary family, returning to Saskatoon to finish elementary and high school. He graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a BA, B.ED and a Masters in School Psychology. He found fulfillment working with students, parents and teachers in Brandon MB, Squamish BC, Castlegar BC and the Cowichan Valley BC. He had a passion for history and enjoyed learning about the areas he lived in. Howard also had a special interest in Mennonite history. He retired in 2018.
Howard was a committed family and outdoors man; enjoying camping, fishing, hiking, skiing and kayaking with his family and friends. His sports passion was soccer. He dabbled at playing and coaching and was an avid world soccer fan. He truly valued the long term friendships he made in the places he settled. Howard was an animal lover from childhood, and had several dogs and cats that were an integral part of his family life.
Howard was lovingly cared for by his wife Jerri, and they are deeply thankful to his other compassionate and loyal caregivers of the last year: Eric Schmidt, Jesse Schmidt, Shelly Hollingshead, Glen Hollingshead, Marianne Neill, Teagan Hill and Susan Gauti. Along with Dr Gisla Wenzel-Smith they provided the care needed to maintain a good quality of life for Howard at home.
Howard managed the progressive losses from his illness with stoicism and an amazingly positive attitude. His hearty laugh and sense of humor stayed with him until his last day.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the B.C. Parkinson’s society.
Condolences
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From: H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre
H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: Claire Spencer
Relation: Through work at the Cowichan Valley School District
I’m so sorry to hear about Howard. I was lucky enough to get to know him when I worked in Student Support Services at the Cowichan Valley School District in 2016-2018. He was very kind, gentle, and a pleasure to work with. Sending sincere condolences to his loved ones.
From: Dave Forster
Relation: a former good neighbour!
Maureen and I were saddened to hear of Howard’s passing. We were neighbours for a few years in Castlegar. We did have a couple small issues as neighbours often do but I found Howard to be fair and honest and always willing to meet you more than halfway. Jerri , please accept our sincere condolences for your loss. Dave and Mo Forster
From: Judith Bailey
Relation: Friends of the Family
Dear Jerri and family….so very sorry for your loss. We are keeping you all close in our hearts. May you find comfort in all the Love and Support from family and friends. We remember with fondness all our time spent in Howard’s company. He was a very fun loving, adventurous, gentle, knowledgeable and articulate man. We indeed feel Blessed to have known him. Take care Jerri, much Love, Judi, Dawn and family.
From: Peter Moll
Relation: colleague
Dear Jerri
I was sorry to read of Howard’s passing. His kind and caring approach to his work always stood out for me. I very much enjoyed some interesting conversations over a beer.
Be well!
Service Schedule
Private service arrangements have been made.
Memorial Gifts
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