Robert Schmidt

On December 8, 2021 at the age of 82, Robert Wilfred Schmidt held his guardian angel's hand and left his earthly family as he passed into the love and light of Jesus. He is now in our Lord's loving care.

Robert was born on January 28, 1939 to Henry and Althea (Littmann) Schmidt in Sheboygan, WI. He attended Bethlehem Lutheran Grade School and graduated from Central High School, joining the Marine Corps directly after graduation. His Marine spirit encouraged an interest in the U. S. Air Force. Bob passed all requirements but suddenly changed his mind and hitchhiked his way across the country to return home. While out one evening with friends at Schmidty’s 23 Club, Bob became quite smitten with one particular young lady. That evening he returned home, made himself a big fat summer sausage sandwich, and told himself he was going to marry that girl. He eventually won her heart over, whom he had picked on from across the grade-school playgrounds as a child, and eventually proposed marriage to the love of his life.

Robert and Doris Entringer were united in marriage on May 28, 1960 at St. Peter Claver Catholic Church. He was an outstanding and loving father to their two children, Casandra Ann and Kary.

Bob worked for Pepsi Cola Co., Milwaukee Cheese Co., Woodcraft Inc., and Sheboygan County Woodworking. Although a woodworker by nature, his greatest pride was wearing his badge as a Sheboygan Police Department officer.

As a police officer, he enjoyed his additional position as the department’s shooting range instructor and was uniquely instrumental in the newly introduced 1980’s McGruff, the Crime Dog program. He was the first Sheboygan McGruff in costume at public gatherings. Officer Schmidt, a.k.a. ‘Schmidty’ to the regulars he would talk to while on his downtown “Plaza” beat, stood up for what he believed in, which included treating others with appropriate respect. The local plaza area regulars often would request “Schmidty” to discuss certain matters, as he had earned unique respect and rapport. A favorite memory is when he packed wrapped sausages, cheese, cigarettes, and candy bars in his jacket and shared some Christmas joy with those who were out and alone as he walked the beat. It was a great honor when past encounters would recognize him and proudly tell Officer Schmidt about their lives, family, job, and how they matured into successful and healthy citizens. After a devastating auto accident in 1991, he was hastened into retirement in 1993 due to a permanently damaged knee.

Bob’s love for woodworking along with his learned and natural skills for the trade led him to build several beautiful pieces of furniture and complete various remodeling projects to the family home while always being willing to help and guide others. With determined desire and drive, he built most of their home on Pigeon Lake, a unique and beautiful home wrapped around an 1800’s log cabin.

Bob enjoyed family time above all but also enjoyed golfing, his motorcycles, dancing, camping, ice cream (especially his famous homemade malted shakes), and boating. He had a crazy, goofy-sassy personality, especially with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Living on a lake allowed for unforgettable and unique opportunities for fun and adventure as he taught his grandchildren many safety and rescue skills especially around water. Taking walks in the woods always led to a discussion regarding survival strategies whenever possible, as he loved sharing these skills he acquired in the Marine Corps.

Bob cherished several years as a Scoutmaster of Troop 821 at Holy Name, camping and sharing countless activities as his scouts enjoyed and learned new skills. He took great pride as several of his scouts earned their Eagle status. Lovingly nicknamed “Grumpy,” Bob helped chaperone several trips to the boundary waters of Canada with the local CYO teens where he not only watched for their safety but also took some pleasure in playing “emergency doctor.” It brought great joy to him when one of his scouts would stop by to visit and reminisce.

Bob was strong-headed and proud. He worked hard, cared for others, and was fiercely faithful to his wife and family. Bob is survived by his wife, Doris; his daughter and family, Casandra (James) Wolfert, Tylor (Jessica) Wolfert, Ryan (Kimberly) Wolfert, and Megan (Jacob) Plamann; his son and family, Kary (Nicole) Schmidt, Steven Schmidt, Joseph Schmidt, Michael Schmidt and Jason Wimer. He greatly enjoyed the company of his four great-grandchildren, Hunter, Arrianna, Deklyn, and Jameson. He was also loved by many of his beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, sister Gail Vollrath, stepfather Herman Oldenburg, great-grandson Drake Wolfert, and several brothers- and sisters-in-law.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, January 28, 2022, at 2:00 PM at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, 818 Huron Ave. Sheboygan, with Fr. Norbert Sandoval officiating. Military Honors will follow. Relatives and friends may visit with the family from 12:30 PM until the time of mass at the CHURCH.

We’d like to thank the kindness, friendship, and compassion expressed by many neighbors, friends, and the staff of St. Nicholas Hospice, Sharon Richardson Hospice, along with other special caregivers.

A Memorial Fund will be established in Robert’s name.

Listen . . . Can you hear him? Bob will be watching, patrolling, protecting, and smiling over us!