Oscar Emil Schmidt, known affectionately as “Occie” to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully of natural causes on March 14, 2024, in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, at the age of 90. Born on November 14, 1933, in Lorain Township, Wisconsin. Oscar’s life was defined by his unwavering dedication to family, his country, and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures.

In 1951 Oscar graduated from Frederic High School. He proudly served his country for four years in the Air Force during the Korean War, followed by additional years of service in the Air National Guard. He completed Diesel Mechanic training in the Air Force, a skill that would serve him well throughout his life. In 1956, Oscar moved to Silver Bay, Minnesota, to work for Reserve Mining, where he remained until the plant's closure in 1986. He moved back to the Frederic area, where he worked at Penta Wood Products until the company closed in 1992. He worked at Seneca Foods during the summers. At 66 he decided to start a career with Polaris Industries, where he continued to work until retiring at the age of 72.

Oscar's interests were as humble and genuine as he was. For decades he was a proud member of the American Legion Post 396. He enjoyed playing cards, dancing, and in his younger days, deer hunting. His love for old country and western music was matched by his enjoyment of watching country and western shows, as well as crime shows. A dedicated family man, Oscar never missed an opportunity to attend the sporting events of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His weekends often featured Saturday drawings and meat raffles at Indian Creek reveling in the camaraderie of friends and family. He also enjoyed a good cocktail on the deck.

In 1961, Oscar married the love of his life, Beverly Grover, marking the beginning of a loving partnership that would last a lifetime. Together, they raised a family that included their children Robert and wife Colleen Schmidt, Cheryl and husband Steven Marolt, and Julie and husband Chris Thomas. He was a proud and loving grandfather and his legacy continued to grow with his grandchildren, Kyle and wife Nichole Schmidt, Ryan and wife Olivia Schmidt, Giovanni and wife Mallory Marolt, and Corrina Marolt. The sparkle of his eye brightened at the antics of his great-grandchildren, Eilee, Isaac, Elin, and Owen Schmidt; Corbin and Cade Schmidt.

Oscar is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings Luella Amundson, Louie Schmidt, and Henry and wife Gloria Schmidt. Extended family of in-laws, Elvira Schmidt, Virginia and Jim Kuehl, Roy Marske, Luella and Dan Madsen, Judy and Steve Kelch, Don and Deb Grover, and Becky Grover. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews who will remember him fondly. Oscar was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Ella Schmidt, siblings William and wife Marilyn Schmidt, Herman and wife Arlene Schmidt, Adolf Schmidt. Parent in-laws, George and Frances Grover. In-laws, Clifford Amundson, Rita Schmidt, Laura and husband Ted Butzler, Gloria Marske, and Kenny Grover. Nephews John Schmidt, Carl Schmidt, David Schmidt, Terry Butzler, and Jason Madsen.

Oscar will be remembered as a loving, funny, and handy man, whose presence brought light and laughter into every room. His ability to find humor in every situation and his practical wisdom were gifts to all who knew him. His mechanical nature shone through in his knack for greasing anything that squeaked and his ultimate joy in modifying and bypassing safety switches. Oscar's spirit and the memories he created with his loved ones will forever remain a cherished part of their lives.

As we bid farewell to Oscar, we celebrate a life well-lived, and humor for his family and friends. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved him, but the legacy of his warmth and the echoes of his laughter will continue to resonate for generations to come.

The family of Oscar would like to thank Frederic Nursing & Rehab, Traditions of Frederic, and St. Croix Health for the level of care and compassion he received during the last several months of his life.

Services for Oscar will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in McKinley, Wisconsin. Visitation for Oscar will be on Saturday April 20th at 10 am. There will be a Memorial Service at 11 am and luncheon to follow.

You are invited to leave condolences, memories, and photos at www.rowefh.com.

Last Update: Mar 18, 2024 4:34 pm CDT