Obituary
John F. Schmidt
John F. Schmidt, 76, of West Salem, WI. passed away peacefully on July 3, 2022 in his home in West Salem. He was born on November 6, 1945 to Fredric and Delores Schmidt.
John worked in law enforcement in La Crosse County for over 40 years and served his country in the United States Navy as a Vietnam veteran. John loved to fish especially in Canada, he was a hunter and spent a lot of time at his cabin with family and friends. John had a firm faith and believed in forgiveness, transformation of people, and he loved every person God created.
John is survived by his wife, Beth Schmidt; children, Dawn (Steve) Whitsett, Deanna (Brian) Thomas, Darin (Becky) Schmidt, Ron (Amanda) Stankey; one sister, Marti (Randy) Owens; and Pat Schmidt. He is further survived by numerous grandchildren and many other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Delores Schmidt.
The family would like to thank Dr. Valencia, the staff at Mayo Clinic Health System Hospice, the Veterans Administration, and all of his family and friends for their love and support.
John had a love for children and pets, in his honor please direct any memorials to the Humane Society, Salvation Army, Veterans programs, the American Cancer Society, or any charity that would help your community.
A memorial service will be held at 9:00 am on Saturday, July 16, 2022 The Presbyterian Church in West Salem with brunch to follow. Per the family’s selection, Coulee Region Cremation Group will not be in attendance of the service.
John was one of the very best! Rest in peace my friend.
Thank you Butch .
Not a goodbye, but see you later! I’m so glad we crossed paths and I enjoyed all of your visits. Your selfless, upbeat spirit will be miss by all that were fortunate to have known you. Say hi to Lavern!
-Tanya
Barber Arms
Thank you Tanya. He has many friends on this side and the next.
John was a good man. He was a very good police officer, also. I met John around 1972 when I was involved in a shooting incident in the city of Onalaska as a rookie police officer. John and his partner at the time Larry Clark investigated the incident. Over the years I have had contact with John several times. When investigating crimes that overlapped the counties of LaCrosse and Monroe.
Over the years in my career as a police officer I remember how I was treated by John and Larry, and always remember , they treated me with respect and honesty . At that time I did not know John, but I could feel he was a caring loving man and a professional.
I remembered that though out my 33 years as a police officer and wanted to be just as professional as those two officers…….God bless you John Schmidt.
Respectfully,
Richard W.Yunk
Lieutenant of Detectives
Monroe County Sheriffs Department (retired)
Thank you Richard. John was a sweet gentleman, however, when the job required intervention, he wouldn’t hesitate.
My Dad was my best friend and his love and advice helped me in ways I still don’t fully comprehend. I am blessed by the amount of time we got together and all the memories I have. Although I am heartbroken over his passing he made sure I knew his love was “forever”. The love he shared was enough to last my lifetime and then some. Love you Dad.
Darin Schmidt
We were so sorry to hear of Johns passing. He was a good man and friend and I enjoyed working with him. Stan and Jackie Olson
Your dad had an overwhelming love, one that was complete. We were blessed to receive his love.
John was a great friend, co-worker and mentor. He will be missed greatly.
Prayers for his family and friends in their time of grieving.
I remember Uncle John as always very warm and welcoming to me and everyone around him. He was more caring than the average person and loved his family.
So sorry to hear of John’s passing, a truly good ma`. Fair weather and calm sea,s on your journey john.
Hugs and my sympathy to Dawn, Deanna, and Darin. Many good memories of your dad.
John was a great friend and outstanding Sheriff’s Deputy. He truly cared about people and had a heart of gold. God must of needed an Investigator to look into some matters. Worked with John on cases and I cherished his knowledge and dedication. Rest in peace partner.
John had a remarkable career spanning decades
He was always quick to assist and would never back down.
One of the best officers i ever worked along side
RIP
end of watch well deserved
Paul and I were saddened to hear of John’s passing. We had a lot of fun with him and you three, Dawn, Deanna and Darin. We are so sorry for your loss.
I had met John through various functions at the Legion and always enjoyed his sense of humor and his engaging manner with all he met. He was truly interested in others and was willing to share his many life experiences. He was certainly a friend to many and will be missed in West Salem!
To the Schmidt family, Much love! Curt Gran was ready to welcome his friend John so they could talk old times of growing up and band memories. Besides being an exemplary officer he was an awesome person, to all. Peace n Blessings ✝️ Lorraine & Fred cafe