Obituary

Obit from Messenger of Truth Issue 16, 1961:

Earl Dean Schmidt, son of Irvin and Elizabeth Schmidt, was born Dec. 18, 1937, at Halstead, Kansas and departed this life on July 25, 1961, reaching the age of 23 years, 7 months and 7 days. Earl grew to manhood in Harvey County, Kansas, where he also received his education.
In 1958 he with his parents moved to Winton, California, where he resided until death. On August 7, 1960 he was joined in Holy Matrimony with Miss Della Marie Davis, making their home in the Winton Community, sharing joys and sorrows for almost one year.
Earl felt his lost condition and the need of salvation. He accepted Christ as his Saviour and received forgiveness of his sins through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ and was baptized on April 10, 1951 and added to the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite, being a faithful brother unto his end.
His health began to fail when only 10 years of age, suffering from diabetes. However, he enjoyed fair health until last January when other complications set in which caused his death.
Earl had a friendly disposition, winning friends wherever he went. He leaves to mourn his departure; his sorrowing companion, Della Marie; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Schmidt, Atwater, California; five sisters, Shirley McQuire of Topeka, Kansas; Mrs. Lois Wedel; Miss Vera Mae Schmidt; Miss Rose A. Schmidt; Miss Ruth A. Schmidt, all of Atwater, California. Six brothers, Virgil G., Calvin G., Michael D., Norman R., Gerald K. and Robert K., all of Atwater, California.

The following verse written by his wife, Della Marie.

Earl your sweet smile for everyone, and kind blue eyes that
Could still see, were with me just a little while.
The angels were waiting, waiting to take you home where
Jesus would heal you; and you will have no more pain.
Earl though you have gone on before, I can hear your humble
Prayer, "Beloved one and sinners come, it is so beautiful here."

Funeral services were conducted in the Winton church on Saturday, July 29, with a very large group in attendance. Minister D. H. Dyck had opening remarks and prayer. Minister John Wiens chose his text from Isaiah 55:8-9; Psalms 39:4-5 and Rev. 21:4. Minister John J. Esau was in charge of the service at the cemetery. He was laid to rest in the Winton Cemetery.
--His wife and family.