Fredrick J. Schmidt

3/6/1937 — 12/10/2023

Service Date: 7/19/2024
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Frederick Joseph Schmidt, 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Meridian, Idaho, on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023.

Fred was born in Greencreek to Joseph W. Schmidt and Theresa Reiner Schmidt on March 6, 1937.

He graduated from Greencreek High School in 1955 and pursued a career in education. In 1957 he completed a two-year degree at Lewis-Clark Normal School and began teaching at Deary, Ferdinand and Greencreek. He furthered his education at the University of Idaho during the summer months. “Go Vandals!” Fred went on to teach for the Lewiston School District for 29 years, primarily at Sacajawea Junior High School. Along with teaching, he coached many sports and was a Driver Education instructor. Fred was a kind-hearted teacher who impacted the lives of his students. His positive outlook, humor and storytelling abilities kept his students engaged and created a memorable learning environment.

Fred married Karen Regimbal on June 10, 1961, in Nezperce and together they had four children Keith, Diane, Cheryl and Dana. Family was extremely important to him and he treasured spending time together. Some of our fondest memories include camping, fishing and trips to the Oregon coast with close friends. He was famous for leading fireside singalongs which included, “the Lion Hunt” and “She’ll Be Coming Around the Mountain.” His favorite pastime was golfing.

Fred was a member of the Catholic Church. Fred and Karen were active in church ministries including: Engaged Encounter, Cursillo movement and religious education. He was ordained a deacon for All Saints Catholic Church in 2001. As a deacon, he was immersed in the lives of others by preaching, baptizing, assisting in funerals and serving as the church’s witness for marriages.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, and his sisters Margaret Becker, Florence Lux and Delores VonBargen, and granddaughter Jalea Williams.

He is survived by his wife Karen, of 62 years; his son Keith Schmidt and wife Julie (Shawn, Nicole, Brandon and families); daughters Diane Parks and husband Dave (Joel and Erica and families), Cheryl Horovitz and husband Dan (Jane and Joey) and Dana Morrell and husband Todd (Jack and Ben). His sisters Lucille Sprute, Clemy Bieker, Anna Gehring, Theresa Wemhoff and husband Willie; and brother Father Joe Schmidt; 10 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

The memorial service will be held Friday, July 19, 2024, at All Saints Catholic Church, 3330 14th St., Lewiston.

Memorial contributions can made to the Salvation Army, 1220 21st St., Lewiston, ID 83501.

Service Information

Date & Time: Friday, July 19, 11:00 AM
Location: All Saints Catholic Church
3330 14th Street
Lewiston, ID 83501

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Condolences

Lynette Lothspeich

Karen and family,

I was so sad to hear of Fred’s death. You have my deepest sympathy. I taught with Fred at Sacajawea Junior High for several years although I was not lucky enough to share lunch with him during that time. He always had a big smile on his face and just radiated such kindness.

He was one of the first individuals I met who planned an entirely new vocation after his retirement which brought me a new perspective. Thank you so much for sharing him with the church. I was always so happy to hear him from the pulpit or just to run into the two of you at mass. His big grin always warmed me!

He was a rare individual who made a big difference in people’s lives both in the diaconate and in public school education. He will be greatly missed. Prayers to all of you.

Lynette Lothspeich

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 5:32 PM