Delbert H. Schmidt

July 23, 2018

Delbert H. Schmidt, 87, of New Holstein, WI, passed away peacefully at Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation Center on July 20, 2018.

Delbert was born in Charlestown to the late Martin and Leona (Mathes) Schmidt on December 13, 1930. It was here where he learned the art of gardening, a practice he lovingly maintained throughout the rest of his life.

Delbert served his country during the Korean War, fighting with the 40th Infantry Division and was one of the few brave survivors of the Battle of Heartbreak Ridge. He earned a Korean Service Medal, two Bronze Campaign Stars, a United Nations Service Medal, and one Over-Seas Bar. Delbert was honorably discharged from the service on July 17, 1953.

After he returned home, Delbert met the love of his life, Joan (Knox), at the Franklin Haus in Franklin. Delbert later recounted that he knew he would marry Joan during their second date. On September 9, 1961, Delbert and Joan were wed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rantoul.

Delbert worked at Carnation Company in Chilton for 24 years. He also worked at the Inter-Community Incinerator in Elkhart Lake and Wilderness Log Homes, Inc. in Plymouth. He was a member of the American Legion from 2002-2003 where he served as 6thDistrict Legislative Chairman. He was also a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Kiel. Ever strong in his faith, Delbert loved his Lord. He regularly attended church services, proudly singing hymns of praise he held dear to his heart. Delbert enjoyed gardening, sitting on his deck, and being surrounded by his family and friends. He will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his wife, Joan; his daughters: Diane (Greg) Drew of Appleton, Brenda (Dwayne) Beckmann of Kiel, and Jennifer (Allen) Lisowe of Two Rivers; seven grandchildren: Jonathan Folsom, Brittany and Ramsey Beckmann, Quinten, A.J., Cade, and Skyler Lisowe; sisters-in-law: Loa Ann Schmidt, LaVerne Schmidt, Patricia Mercer, and Sharon Miller. He is further survived by his brother and sister: Richard (Audrey) Schmidt and Eileen (Glen) Beers. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sisters: Ronald Schmidt, Harvey Schmidt, Martin Schmidt, and Darlene Koehler. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, family and friends.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, July 27, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Kiel from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, directly followed by a funeral service. After the service, all are welcome to share a meal with the family to celebrate Delbert’s life. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation Center, as well as Heartland Hospice for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flower arrangements, a memorial fund has been established for Lutheran Hour Ministries.