George Edward Schmidt

Ed Schmidt, 87, of Peoria, passed to heaven on April 7, 2025, at Apostolic Christian Restmor in Morton. A lifelong resident of Peoria, Ed was born on June 29, 1937, to John Edwin “Jack” Schmidt and Oletha (Finch) Schmidt, and married to Marilyn since 1961.

Ed is preceded in death by his parents Jack and Oletha Schmidt and brother Larry. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Marilyn (Traub) Schmidt; his three children Daniel (Judy) Schmidt, Anne Schmidt, and Stephen (Robin) Schmidt; five grandchildren Maxwell & Ella Schmidt, Olivia, Joel, and Makayla Schmidt; one brother, John; and two chosen grandchildren, Zachary and Bethany Zwart.

Ed graduated from Woodruff High School in 1955. He noticed Marilyn Traub at a Valentine’s Day Dance while in school, found and met her at her locker, and walked her to class every day afterwards. They were united in marriage on August 20, 1961, and he continued to watch over Marilyn the rest of his life.

After high school, Ed joined the Air Force where he had the opportunity to serve his country and see the world. This experience taught him many lessons and influenced his outlook on life. Ed received his bachelor’s degree from Bradley University. Following graduation, Ed had a successful career at the Peoria Barge Terminal / NE Finch Companies. He had a tremendous business sense that served him well in his career and in taking care of his family.

Ed lived a very full and active life. He was an avid tennis player for more than 40 years, playing every Monday at River City until he turned 87. He had a deep love of jazz, spending countless hours listening to music and attending live events. He volunteered hours on end to create and maintain peoriajazz.com, which had local jazz events listed until he couldn’t any longer.

Ed also loved being part of the Peoria Heights Investment Club since he joined in 1966. He was dedicated to Fighting Illini football, attending home games for the past 40 years. He also had a big heart for kids and was an active supporter of Youth Farm.

Ed was a kind and gentle soul with a subtle sense of humor. He cared deeply for his family and those around him. His family cherishes the many special moments we had with Ed during his final year. We are confident that “He who began a good work will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Ed’s spirit, his gentleness, and his concern for others became ever more evident as he faced the trials of this past year. We are now comforted that he is in a better place by Christ’s righteousness. “God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.”

Visitation will be Monday, April 14, 2025 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria. Funeral services will be Tuesday April 15, 2025 at 10 a.m. at the church. Additional visitation will be one hour prior to the services on Tuesday at the church. Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria is in charge of arrangements.

Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery in Peoria with Military Honors.

Memorials in Ed's honor may be made to Grace Presbyterian CHurch or St Jude Midwest Affiliate.

You may view Ed’s obituary online at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com