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Louis G. Schmidt Obituary – 2/17/2012


Louis (Louie) George Schmidt, age 85, a park manager at Collinwood County Park in Cokato, passed away Friday, Feb. 17, 2012, in Mesa AZ, where he winters.

A Celebration of Life service is planned on Louis’ birthday, Saturday, April 14 at 1 p.m. at Collinwood County Park.

A memorial service also took place Wednesday, March 7, in Mesa, AZ.

Louis was born April 14, 1926, in Chicago, IL, to Edwin Schmidt and Daisy Gladden Schmidt.

He was proud of his heritage, as Louis’ mother was the grand niece of General “Stonewall” Jackson.

Raised in Phillips, WI, he later moved to Chicago, IL.  There, Louis met his wife, of 62 years, Nancy. The couple moved to the North Shore of Lake Superior, in Two Harbors.  They were blessed with three children.

Louis served in the Air Force during World War II.

He was employed at the Co-op Light and Power for 37 years in Two Harbors. 

After his retirement, he became park manager of Sherwood Forest in Gilbert, MN.  He later took the position as park manager of Collinwood County Park, Cokato, where he worked for16 seasons until his death.

Louis was a member of the VFW, American Legion, Moose Lodge, a past president of the Jaycees, a past Scoutmaster of Boy Scouts, past Master of Fortitude Lodge Masonic Order, past Worthy Patron of Eastern Star, Emera Chapter; past Guardian and past Associate Grand Guardian of Minnesota Job’s Daughters, and a member of Scottish Rite, and AAD Shrine Temple, as “Looie the Clown.”  He also served as treasurer for Mesa Regal Masonic coffee club, and president of the Minnesota club at Mesa Regal.

Louis received his private pilot’s license and enjoyed flying his Piper J-4 airplane, as well as spending time at his cabin on Thomas Lake, water skiing, fishing, and hunting.  He also enjoyed clowning, camping, singing “put another log on the fire,” dancing, and spending time with his family and friends.

Always the clown, Louis lived life to the fullest, making people laugh.  He will be sadly missed by all who knew him, but leaves behind a great and noble legacy.

 Louis is survived by his wife, Nancy; sons Louis “Rick” (LeAnn) of Gilbert, MN, and Paul of Mesa, AZ;  daughter Kristi (Jon) Kassulke of Buffalo; grandchildren Cindi (Zach) Tagg, Luanne Schmidt, and Damon and Dane Kassulke; great-grandson Aaden; a brother, Fred Schmidt of Two Harbors; and many loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and three sisters, Lillian, Bertha, and Inez.

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