David Schmidt's Obituary
David (Dave) Schmidt, 94, passed away May 3, 2025 at HCA North Florida Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. He leaves his beloved wife of 50 years, Arlene, four sons: Daniel Schmidt of Clermont, Florida, Ronald Schmidt of Palm Coast, Florida, Johnathon Spring of Gainesville, Florida, and Lawrence Schmidt of Copperhill, Tennessee. In addition, 3 step children: Deborah Sherier of York, South Carolina, Robert Andrews of Purdy, Virginia and Thomas Andrews of Gainesville, Florida, seven grandchildren: Jennifer, Jacqueline, Brian, Mark, Amanda, Jason and David, finally five great grandchildren: Jackie, Kristen, Joseph, Lincoln and Kennedy.
David was born February 5, 1931 in Portland, Oregon to Frederick and Emily Reils Schmidt. His father died in March of 1931. David and his brother Herb were raised by their mother for 10 years until her remarriage. In his high school and college years Dave was a trumpet player in school bands, dance bands and the Portland Junior Symphony Orchestra. David graduated with a BS in Electrical Engineering from Oregon State College in 1953, then accepted a position with General Electric Company. After serving 10 years as a capacitor design engineer in Hudson Falls, New York, another 10 years in Washington, DC as an application marketing engineer, he was transferred to Gainesville, Florida in 1976 as a marketing engineer for GE Battery Business. He earned the title of Manager of Aerospace Marketing. David received two Man of the Year awards from GE and retired in 1993 after 40 years of service.
Over the years, David and his family enjoyed boating, fishing, camping, water and snow skiing. David was an avid bicycle rider logging 20,000 miles himself. He inspired all of his family to enjoy the outdoors and sports of their choice. He also gardened, walked, golfed and traveled with Arlene.
Dave will be missed by his loving family and friends. In lieu of flowers, he asked that plants be established and nurtured in your yard or area as a tribute.
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