Elsie Schmidt

Elsie was born on June 14, 1951 in Abbotsford BC, where she grew up between her two eldest brothers Howard & Paul, and her two youngest brothers Dan & Dave. Living on a poultry and raspberry farm, her brothers were tasked with chores in the barn, while she became what her brother’s referred to as the “raspberry strawboss aka raspberry field supervisor” in the summer months.

In high school, Elsie attended MEI where she played basketball for the MEI Eagles. Her teammates share that she was known for her determination and feistiness. Elsie went on to Trinity Western & UBC where she received her Bachelor of Education in 1975. Soon after, she began her elementary teaching career in Langley.

Elsie met her future husband Vic Schmidt, at a high school basketball game and were married a year later in 1978. This was fitting, as they continued to enjoy watching basketball games together during their forty-six years of marriage.

Their family grew and over the next years they welcomed three sons: Matt, Andrew, and Jon. As the boys continued to grow, Elsie had a unique realization: she thought she had married a rich farmer, but now realized it would be helpful to go back to teaching and a paycheck. Elsie taught at Evans Elementary School in Chilliwack for the next 19 years. Those years were filled with life on the farm, involvement at Central Community Church, many sporting events, and camping trips.

Elsie demonstrated qualities that inspired those around her. Although she faced numerous health challenges over the past thirty years, she persevered during each setback and maintained a servant heart. She was steadfast in her faith. Her love for family and friends was evident through her generous hospitality, notably her countless homemade meals. One of Elsie’s goals was that God would use her limitations to give way to God’s abundance – she was a shining light in the community.

Elsie is survived by husband Vic, sons Matt (Brandy), Andrew (Emily), and Jon (Sarah). She also adored her four grandchildren Sawyer, Ryah, Kalo, and Naya. Elsie is predeceased by her parents John and Helen Loewen.

The family would like to thank Elsie's long time family physician, Dr Gord Enns for his listening ear and timely advice over the last 3 decades.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday June 26 at 11:00am at Central Community Church.

46100 Chilliwack Central Rd, Chilliwack BC.