Austin "Smitty" Schmidt

Austin Robert Schmidt, 93, of Bay City, our honorable, devoted, talented, and most patriotic father, Papa, and Poppy passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 30, 2017 at McLaren Bay Region. Smitty was born in Bay City on July 23, 1924, the son of the late Oscar and Hazel (Austin) Schmidt. Austin was a 1942 graduate of Bay City Central, where he was active on the football team. Following high school, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and was a decorated veteran, proudly serving in England, where he flew 30 missions as a Bombardier on a B-24 Liberator. Austin was the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross. While in high school, Austin met the former Marie Szelagowski. They dated, fell in love and were united in marriage on July 7. 1945. Sadly, Marie preceded Austin in death in November of 1975. He later married the former Marion Mason Feeney, who also preceded him in death. Smitty spent his career working in personnel management. He was a distinguished teacher of Dale Carnegie courses and always put the needs of others before his own. A true servant of the Lord, Smitty was a member of Essexville Baptist Community Church for over 50 years. He was also formerly active with the Elks Club and American Legion. Those who knew Smitty will always remember him for his talented furniture making and bird carving skills, love of golfing, reading, traveling the country, football (especially U of M), but most of all, his unwavering love for his family. His generous and kind ways will live on for generations to come. Austin leaves to cherish his memory, his two daughters: Margaret “Peg” (Gerald) Brunner and Marcia (Larry) Snelling. He was the most loving and supportive Papa of Paige (Doug) Plant, Sarah (Joe) Drouin, Margaret (Steven) McGunegle, Mary (Brad) Potter and the Poppy of Grace, Jacob, Hailee, Amelia, Maeve, Belle, and Austin. Smitty is also survived by his step-sons, Gary (June) Feeney, Jim (Edwina) Feeney and their families. Austin’s family will be present to receive visitors on Saturday, September 9, 2017 from 9:30 AM until the time of his 11:00 AM Tribute Ceremony at Essexville Baptist Community Church, 1001 Main St., Essexville. Pastor Mark Montei will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Essexville Baptist Community Church. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com.