Richard J. Schmidt

Richard J. Schmidt, 76, of Neillsville, Wis., died peacefully on Saturday, November 6, 2021, at home with his family by his side.

Richard Joseph Schmidt was born on Jan. 12, 1945, in Neillsville, the son of Joseph and Josephine (Wenner) Schmidt. He graduated from Neillsville High School in 1963 and worked for a few years at Marshfield Homes. On July 10, 1965, he was united in marriage to Beverly Joyce at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Neillsville. Together they farmed in the Town of York and raised their family. Richard loved hunting and fishing and enjoyed many adventurous trips with family to the Boundary Waters and many fly-in fishing trips to Canada. He also looked forward to the camaraderie of “Holy Hunting Week” every year when everyone would gather and share stories and make new memories. He shared many rides on his famous Purple Harley with family and friends. After their son, Mark took over the farm Richard continued to help him on the farm and also drove a milk truck. He received recognition for serving for 20 years as chairman of the Town of York.

He is survived by is his wife, Beverly, six children; Lisa (Dewey) Blanchard, Cindy (Randy) Munns, Mark (Nikki) Schmidt, Tina Schmidt, Kim (Lanny) Collins and Ryan (Michelle) Schmidt, 11 Grandchildren; Cassandra, Brandon, Brooke, Eric, Morgan, Clay, Katelyn, Alex, Kennedy, Sophia and Jack and 1 Great Grandson, Oliver. He is further survived by siblings; Yvonne (Alvin) Lezotte, Mary (Gordon) Smith, Arlene (Gilbert) Layton, Carolyn (Jim) Foote, Ralph (Karlene) Schmidt and Lori (Tim) Thoma and many nieces and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life will be at noon Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Gesche Funeral Home in Neillsville. Pastor Terry Marg will officiate. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon before the service.

Richard’s family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice, nurses Jen and Lynn, for their wonderful care of Richard.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.