Charles J. Schmidt Jr.

Charles J. Schmidt, Jr., son of Charles and Frances Schmidt (both pre-deceased), passed away on April 19th, 2019 at 79 years young. He left behind his wife, Margo; ex-wife Virginia; daughters Cheryl Ingato and Laura Leigh; son Charles J. Schmidt III; grandchildren Dominique and Isabelle Ingato and Elrik and Arafel Buzan; stepchildren Daniel and Sheena Bailey and Jessica Patterson (deceased); sisters Joan Person, Margie Decker and Barbara Wurm (deceased); brothers James Kuhl, George Schmidt and Walter Kuhl (deceased) and Daniel Smith (deceased); and many nieces, nephews and family who will always remember him with love. He was also eagerly awaiting the birth of his new grandson in June.

Charles was the rock and protector; the one you went to when you couldn’t figure something out. His first comment was always a joke or funny story - he had an unlimited supply of them - or he’d just make up something. He had a sixth sense mixed with amazing (and intentionally camouflaged) intelligence and could sift through the garbage to come up with logical options; generally laced with colorful stories from his past. He was particularly frustrated and concerned about the political lies and propaganda that was dividing the country and the world. There was no better person to be near for comfort; if he didn’t have the right words his hugs could cure anything he couldn’t fix. No matter what he was doing, if you needed Charles he’d make it his mission to be there.

Charles was on the West Caldwell Police Force for 5 years until he left to start his electrical contracting business. Although he was licensed only for electrical work, he was an expert plumber, carpenter, landscaper . . . anything he did not know how to do he researched on YouTube. After he “retired” he completed renovated 2 houses, replaced a central air system, repaired inground sprinklers (most of these after the age of 60) and was an accomplished cook and grill master.

Charles loved his children and grandchildren more than anyone I’ve ever known or heard of. He was devoted to them and spent much of his last few months trying to capture all his treasured videos onto DVDs for the ‘kids’. He left behind the memories he captured on video but his love and memories will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday April 23, 2019 from 2-4 PM at Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home 26 Mule Road Toms River, NJ 08755. A service celebrating Charles life will be held at 3:30 PM. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family by visiting www.quinn-hoppingfh.com.