Schmidt, Virgil Roger

October 16, 1937 – October 17, 2023

Roger Schmidt passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at the age of 86 years. He will be dearly missed by his wife Detta; three daughters Mona Schildknecht of Red Deer, Melinda Conrad of Calgary and Connie Leavens of Chestermere; two sons-in-law Chad and Adam; nine grandchildren Jessica, Jacquelyn, Christopher, Jillian, Abigail, Brett, Eric, Jacey and Jamie; and four great-grandchildren Noah, Caitlyn, Riley and Addison. He is also survived by his siblings Myron Schmidt (Mickey), Gail Halstead, Garth Schmidt and Nona Bouchier; and a large extended family. Roger was predeceased by his parents Virgil and Doris Schmidt, an infant son Samuel Schmidt and a brother Brent Schmidt.

Roger was born and raised in Lethbridge, AB, where he gained quite the reputation for his love of cars and how he drove them: fast. As a young man, he served a mission for his church in South Africa, where he unknowingly met his sweetheart Detta. After they had each returned home from their missions, they were reacquainted and married in August of 1962. They settled in Calgary, where they raised their family. His girls and later grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a great joy in his life. All of his family members will forever cherish many wonderful memories of times spent together camping, playing games, and fixing cars. As much as he could play hard, Roger has also always been a hard worker. He was dedicated to his family and to his church. Everyone who knew him knows that he has always had a smile. Even at the end, when he was unable to communicate, he would look you in the eye and give his big grin. He exuded positivity and kindness that even total strangers would notice. Roger will be remembered for his kindness and dedication. He was always willing to help someone in need. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy and stands as an example of how a man should live his life: with honesty, integrity, kindness, love, and service.

A Funeral Service will be held for Roger at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – 17 Ave SW Stake Centre (2021 – 17 Avenue SW, Calgary) on Monday, October 23, 2023 at 11:00 am with a viewing from 10:00 to 10:45 am prior to the service. Interment will follow at Mountain View Memorial Gardens.