David Schmidt

David Wendell Schmidt, age 66, of Schaller, Iowa, passed away on May 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A celebration of David’s life will be held on May 23, 2025, from 5-7:00 p.m. at the Jaycees Shelter House in Schaller. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend, and the family would love it if those with fond memories of David would share them starting at 6 p.m. - especially those that capture his humor, heart, and the joy he brought to others. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Schaller is in charge of the arrangements. Born on August 8, 1958, in Storm Lake, Iowa, David was the beloved son of Neil and Ruth Schmidt. He graduated from Schaller High School in 1976. The same year he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served as a Mortar Man until he was honorably discharged four years later. While enlisted, he received the Good Conduct Medal, Letter of Appreciation, Rifle Marksman Badge, and Pistol Expert Badge. He lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and deep devotion to his family. David was a proud father and grandfather, known not only for his strong work ethic and dependable nature but also for his sharp wit and unforgettable sense of humor. He had a gift for making others laugh, often delivering a perfectly timed one-liner or repeating one of his favorite sayings that became classics among family and friends. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: taking long truck rides with his loyal dog by his side, tending to his garden with care, spending peaceful mornings in the woods hunting, and proudly cheering from the stands at his daughter’s and later at his grandchildren’s sporting events. He rarely missed a game, and his pride in his family was one of his defining qualities. David is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Tami Schmidt of Schaller, IA; children: Jamie (Evan) Grieme of Schaller, IA, Tessa (Kurt) Petersen of Cypress, TX, and Cassie (Ben) Wehrkamp of Newport Beach, CA; grandchildren: Brynlee and Nolan Grieme, Lennox and Reed Rydberg, and Flynn Petersen; mother Ruth Schmidt; brother Al Schmidt; sister-in-law Judy Graybill; and brother-in-law Dana (Rosie) Buckingham. He was preceded in death by his father, Neil Schmidt; brother Doug and sister Wenda; and parents-in-law Eugene and Vivienne Buckingham. David Wendell Schmidt will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered for his laughter, his loyalty, and the legacy of love and wisdom he leaves behind.

David Schmidt

August 8, 1958 - May 17, 2025