Memorial
Steve Schmidt, 60, of Cedar Rapids passed away on Monday, August 31, 2020. Private family graveside services will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. A Celebration of Steve’s Life will be held on Thursday, June 17th, 2021 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Wanatee Park (formerly known as Squaw Creek) in the Prairie Oak Lodge: 4201 Big Bluestem Drive, Marion, Iowa 52302.
Steven Donald Schmidt was born September 29, 1959, son of Don and Joyce Schmidt. Steve was born and raised in Cedar Rapids. He graduated from Washington High School and subsequently Luther College with a degree in Business and French. It was at Luther College that Steve met his husband, Mark. Steve worked for General Mills for over 40 years, beginning in high school, until his retirement in 2019.
Steve was a passionate volunteer and philanthropist for the Rapids Aids Project (RAP) and Alzheimer’s Association. Steve was known for his beautiful yard and gardens, ability to bake amazing pies, and fluency in French. Steve enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren, niece, and nephew, traveling the world, fishing, attending live theatre, drinking fine wine (and an occasional Grasshopper), and driving his sports cars. His family and friends will fondly remember his compassion, generosity, and the way he devotedly cared for others.
Those left to carry on Steve’s kindness include his loving partner and husband of 38 plus years, Mark Downing; mother, Joyce Schmidt; brother, Jim (Janet Black) Schmidt, daughter, Nikkole (Mark) Williamson; grandchildren, Logan, Bladen and Jackson Smart; Niece, Lauren Smith; nephew, Jason (Maria) Block; brother-in-law, Rich Block, and best friends, Dave Seery and Tricia Kitzmann.
He was preceded in death by his father, Don Schmidt, and sister, Janet Block.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions be made in Steve’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association, One Iowa, Critter Crusaders, or directly to his family.
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