Gerald Arthur Schmidt

Gerald Arthur Schmidt was born on May 3, 1939 ,in Perham to Arthur M and Hannah (Tong) Schmidt of rural Detroit Lakes. He attended Detroit Lake High School. During his school years he was involved in 4-H. Later he took art classes at Bemidji State. After finishing school Gerald went to work at Skelly Gas Station as a mechanic. He went on to work at Schram Brothers Myron Motors (Nereson’s) and Berg’s, also as a mechanic specializing in front end and alignments. Later he joined the Army National Guard unit in Detroit Lakes and also Moorhead as a medic. He drove race cars, loved snowmobiling and enjoyed being outdoors hunting, fishing and taking pictures while hiking. His passion was his artwork and he completed many paintings of nature, wildlife, and historical settings.

Gerald is survived by his children; Daniel (Betty), Alicia (Kerry) Kohler, Patricia Oreskovich, Jennifer Conway, several grandchildren, brothers Edward, David (Cindy) and Richard (Barbara), his sisters Pamela (Don) Skarie and Ann (Gary) Fingalson. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Merwin, sister Carol Welty, sister-in-law Sue Schmidt and brother-in-law Don Welty. He has several nephews and nieces.

A memorial service is planned for Gerald at Upsala Lutheran Church this summer. Check back for service updates.