Melvin Paul SCHMIDT

SCHMIDT, Melvin Paul - age 75 of Gainesville, GA, passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2014 due to complications of cancer. Graveside services will take place 11:30 AM Wednesday, February 26 at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, MI. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to Disabled Veterans of America or The Wounded Warrior Project. Mel grew up in a working class family in Detroit, and was the youngest son in a family of six. After graduating from St. Anthony's High School in Detroit he enlisted in the Army and was a member of the Corps of Engineers. He enjoyed being in the service and reflected back on the experience fondly as some of the best times of his life. Upon returning to Detroit he began working at Vickers Inc and his life shifted. He met and married a sassy co-worker and fabulous bowling partner, Judy Krol. Several years later they moved out of Detroit and to Rochester, where they built a house and had two children, Matthew and Emily. After living in Michigan for over 55 years, Mel and Judy retired to Gainesville, GA to enjoy retirement and the warmer weather. A devoted Catholic, Mel was strong in his faith and actively involved in the Catholic Church. He was also a 4th degree member of The Knights of Columbus and on a regular basis he was engaged in many charitable activities. He especially enjoyed being involved in charitable events revolving around our veterans. Mel will be remembered as an intelligent and fun man who loved a good joke, building things around the house, watching football and enjoying a cigar with his family. He was kind and generous, gave great hugs and his family always came first in his life. He will be missed greatly but not forgotten by his family and friends. Mel is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Matthew and Emily and their spouses Amy Schmidt and Jennifer Fountain; grandchildren, Logan and Addison Schmidt; brothers and sisters, Louise Suchocki (Schmidt), Benny Schmidt, Marcy Luibrand (Schmidt), Jerry Schmidt, and Josie Doucette (Schmidt). Online tributes may be shared on the obituary page of www.sharpfuneralhomes.com

Funeral Service

Wednesday, February 26, 2014 11:30 AM
Great Lakes National Cemetery
4200 Belford Road Holly 48442, United States