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Ed Schmidt
Ogallala business leader, Edward H. Schmidt, age 76, passed away
Sunday, December 21, 2008 at his home surrounded by family.
Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 29,
2008 at the Ogallala New Hope Church with Pastor David Dobbertien of
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church officiating. Private committal services
with military honors will be held at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery
at a later date.
Ed was born June 28, 1932 in Flandreau, South Dakota, the son of
Fred A. and Alma (Ehlers) Schmidt. He was raised on the family farm
and attended school in Whiting, Iowa, graduating from high school in
1950.
He served in the Navy Reserve for three years and in the U.S. Army
for two years of active duty. After receiving his Honorable
Discharge in 1955 he used the GI Bill to pursue his pilot’s license.
In 1954 Ed married Shirley Ann Smith. He worked for the Public
Service Company of Colorado and was also a Colorado State Patrol
officer.
His interest in cars drew him into the automobile industry in the
mid 1960’s. He eventually opened a dealership in Sterling, Colorado
and also established Schmidt Motors in Ogallala in 1980.
Ed served on the Ogallala City Council for four years. He was a
member of the Flatlanders Auto Club of North Platte. Ed was also an
Admiral of the Great State of Nebraska. He was actively involved in
the Lake McConaughy Govenor’s Cup Regatta as well as the Trail
Blazers organization for organizing boat races. Ed was the self
appointed Dock Master of Kingsley Bay.
Ed’s hobbies included his family, cars, flying, boating and water
sports, motor cycling, traveling, his work and his love for animals.
He was a member of the American Legion, the Loyal Order of the
Moose, Ogallala Elks Lodge # 1760 and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.
Survivors include his wife of fifty four years, Shirley Schmidt;
three sons and one daughter; Steve Schmidt and wife Sherri and
grandson Eric; Audrey Schmidt Will and husband Erhard and
grandchildren Alexandra, Samantha and Max; Ron Schmidt and wife Kim
and grandchildren Ricci, Meghann and husband Dan Lauts, Cassidee and
Luke; Greg Schmidt and wife Laura and grandchildren A.J., Shawn and
Kevin. One brother, Lenard Schmidt and wife Betty. Nephew Mark
Schmidt and wife Deanna. And his loyal cat, Annie.
He was preceded in death by his parents; Fred A. Schmidt, Alma
Schmidt Henderson and Otis Hendeson.
A memorial has been established in his memory. Online condolences
may be sent at gubserfuneralhome.com.
Gubser Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. |
