Jerry Patrick Schmidt

Jerry was born on April 28, 1947, to Pat and Jean Schmidt in Portland, Oregon. After graduating from John Marshall High School in 1965, he went on to enlist in the US Air Force. He had a long and successful career at Fred Meyer as a food department manager where, for over 41 years, he worked in stores throughout the Portland metropolitan area.

During his senior year at Marshall High School Jerry met his high school sweetheart, Janice Riley. They were married in 1968 and went on to have two daughters, Kristy and Kim. For nearly 50 years they called Milwaukie home, until their recent move to Canby.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Jean Schmidt; as well as his daughter, Kim Ramsthel. He leaves behind a legacy of love and memories in the hearts of his wife, Janice; daughter, Kristy Edmark; son-in-law, Aaron Edmark; and granddaughter, Lauren Edmark.

Jerry loved to be on the go. Bike rides with Janice took them on countless journeys, including the San Juan Islands, Utah, Central Oregon, and all around Portland. Traveling, both near and far, held a special place in his heart, with a particular fondness for planning road trips as well as immersing himself in the diverse cultures experienced during international adventures in his retirement years.

Throughout his life he had a deep passion for sports, from swimming on his high school team and playing racquetball in his younger years, to being a super fan of the Michael Jordan era of the Chicago Bulls and watching all kinds of car racing. In more recent years, soccer was his sport of choice. He enjoyed the Premier League and was a long-time Thorns season ticket holder, but his favorite team was whatever his granddaughter Lauren was playing on. He was one of her biggest fans, rarely missing a game.

In retirement, Jerry kept busy with volunteer work. He was part of a team that walked shelter dogs at the Oregon Humane Society, forming lasting bonds with fellow volunteers. He dedicated time to the Oregon Foodbank and even volunteered in Lauren's third-grade class, the kids all loved “Grandpa Jerry.”

Beyond his numerous interests and volunteer work, Jerry possessed an enormous heart and a wonderful sense of humor, which he shared generously with those around him. He had an extensive collection of graphic t-shirts and baseball hats, which he often referred to as “conversation starters.” Jerry had a smile that could light up any room.

Above all else, Jerry’s love and appreciation for those close was immeasurable. He was a devoted husband, a remarkable dad, and a proud grandpa. His support, generosity, and hard work provided a wonderful life for his family. As we mourn his loss, we celebrate a life well-lived, rich with experiences and an unwavering love for family, friends, and adventure.

A memorial service will be held at Parkrose United Methodist Church at 11111 NE Knott Street, Portland, OR 97220 on Saturday, October 28 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Oregon Humane Society (www.oregonhumane.org/) or the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation (www.npcf.us)