Jerald E. Schmidt

Jerald E. "Jerry" Schmidt, age 74, of Grand Island, passed away Friday, Dec. 28, 2012, at St. Francis Medical Center in Grand Island. Jerry gave the ultimate gift, bequeathing his remains to the Nebraska Anatomical Board.

Visitation was held Sunday, Dec. 30, 2012, from 4-7 p.m. at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Grand Island, with a vigil service at 7 p.m.

Memorial services were held Monday, Dec. 31, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Leo's Catholic Church in Grand Island. Rev. Harold R. Kurtenbach and Rev. Charles L. Torpey concelebrated.

Burial will be at a later date in the O'Neill Cemetery. 

Curran Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

Jerry was born Aug. 16, 1938, in O’Neill to Ernst and Annalee (Miller Gallagher) Schmidt. He grew up in O’Neill, graduating from St. Mary’s High School in 1956. He began working for Safeway Stores. 

He married Cherrian A. Knepper on August 15, 1960, at Burke, SD.  They lived in O’Neill and Jerry was president of S & S Stores. In 1986 S & S Stores merged with Country General.  Jerry and his family moved to Grand Island where he was vice president of operations for Country General.  He retired in 1988.  

Jerry helped pioneer the little league baseball program in O’Neill. He enjoyed fishing and watching his grandchildren’s school and sports activities. 

He was a member of St. Leo’s Catholic Church, active in their R.C.I.A. program and a willing volunteer whenever needed.

Survivors include his wife, Cherrian Schmidt of Grand Island; three sons and two daughters-in-law, Steve and Ann Schmidt of Hartford, WI; Ron Schmidt of Phoenix, AZ; and Brian and Raquel Schmidt of Crete; one daughter and son-in-law, Beth and Tim Welke of Battle Creek; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; step father, William Gallagher; a grandson, Caleb Schmidt and a sister, Bonnie Hicks.

Memorials are suggested to St. Leo's Catholic Church. 

On-line condolences may be given at www.curranfuneralchapel.com under Jerry’s obituary.