Steven Michael Schmidt's Obituary
Steven (Smitty) Michael Schmidt passed away January 24, 2024 in Tucson, AZ. He was born July 7, 1948 in Weehawken, NJ. Life travels while his father served in the U.S. Navy included New Jersey, Maine, Connecticut, The Philippines, and San Diego. He attended and graduated from Helix High School in La Mesa, CA. Steve served in the U.S. Navy as a Yeoman Petty Officer 3rd Class in Japan during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged. After studying meteorology in college, he left to pursue his passion of music by writing, singing and performing with a band. Another field of work included operating foil embossing and Heidelberg printing presses for a printing company. He was married to his ex-wife Jeanne and lived in Jamul, CA, before moving to Arizona and making his home in Tucson.
Steve loved music and playing the guitar. He had a gifted green thumb and a deep love of gardening and nature, especially birds and falcons. Steve spent some years as a horse and animal masseuse. He used those skills to work with animal organizations to rescue and rehabilitate neglected horses. Many animals, including cats, dogs and horses, were blessed to have their home with him. As a very creative person, we treasure the many poems he wrote over the years.
Steve is survived by his mother Doris Schmidt, sister Lori Squier, brother David Schmidt and nieces Jessica Cavett and Staci Schmidt. He was preceded in death by his father David Schmidt, brother Michael Schmidt and brother-in-law Nolan Squier.
Services and interment will take place with his family in Virginia.
The family requests donations to Tucson Central Nursery Animal Rescue in Steve’s memory.
What’s your fondest memory of Steven?
What’s a lesson you learned from Steven?
Share a story where Steven's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Steven you’ll never forget.
How did Steven make you smile?