Barbara J. Schmidt

Barbara Schmidt
1932 – 2021

A normal obituary just didn’t sound like enough to recognize such an extraordinary woman. Dedicated wife, loving mother, caring grandmother and sister passed away on July 27, 2021 in her home under hospice care in Owendale at the age of 89. Barbara Joan Schmidt was born on March 21, 1932. She grew up in Pigeon with her parents Herman and Elsie (Laeder) Winkel.

She worked 22 years at Highland Pines in Caro where she passed on life lessons to every student who crossed her path. Her hobbies were gardening, reading, jigsaw puzzles, and baking. Some of her recipes have become family traditions. She enjoyed these things, but her love of family was above all. In her days, she has made many homemade Christmas ornaments and cards that her grandchildren hold dear to this day.

She is survived by her children, Rick (Barb) Schmidt of Owendale, Randy Schmidt of Gagetown, Michael (Loretta) Schmidt of Gagetown, Michele Stewart of Port Austin, Joel Schmidt of Owendale, and Teresa Angst of Elkton; grandchildren, Nicole Schmidt, Kevin Stewart, Becky (Andy) Dronsella, Christy Schmidt, Scott Angst, Matt Angst, and Courtney Stewart; brother Ray Winkel. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Joseph Schmidt, brother Keith Winkel, sister in laws Bernie Winkel and Fran Winkel, son in law Albert Angst, niece Karen Hansen, and her beloved pet Shadow.

This world simply will not be the same without Barbara. She always reflected fondly of her long-time friends, Lois, Louise, Jane, and Shirley. And she leaves us with these words, “Leaving much love to my family who were always there for me.”

Private funeral services with family will be held on August 7th.