WILLIAM (BILL) JOHN SCHMIDT
Born September 23, 1947 passed Monday, November 3, 2014, aged 67, at Cottonwoods Care Home following a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.
He leaves his wife of nearly 47 years, Lorraine (Menu) Schmidt, his sons Tim (Diane) and Bob (Michelle) and four grandchildren Amber, Kaitlyn, William and Victoria. Bill is also survived by his twin brothers Bruce (Ginette) and Brian (Lauren) and three nephews, Ryan, Jonathan and Anthony. Predeceased by his parents John and Antonia (Culos) Schmidt. In addition, many more close family and friends mourn his passing.
Born and raised in Kelowna, as were his parents, Bill was a lifelong resident of the area.
In his early years, he graduated from Kelowna Secondary School and worked at the plywood plant in Kelowna, where he met his wife, Lorraine Menu. They were married in Kelowna on November 18, 1967 at St. Pius X.
Bill later worked with his father-in-law running a concrete pump before joining the Operating Engineers Union and worked as a heavy equipment operator on various projects throughout the province, such as the Revelstoke Dam and the Coquihalla Connector.
When not at work, Bill was very social and you could always find him with family and friends around him. He loved to have a good time and make those with him laugh. Well known for that mischievous smile and little chuckle, Bill always had something up his sleeve. He will be deeply missed by his large network of family and all those that called him “friend”.
A private burial will be held for family on November 7, 2014 and a Celebration of Life will be planned for the spring. This will be a time for those close to Bill, to share fond memories and, once again, laugh. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com.
Arrangements entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299.