Willard Henry Schmidt

Master of his own world, an inventor, thinker, genius, Realtor, retailer, entrepreneur, father, and friend to many and a burr under the saddle for some, died peacefully at his home on Wednesday, February 5, 2014 at the young age of 93. Dad's amazing journey started on January 28, 1921 in Whitehall, Montana as the son of a rancher and gold miner. He was witness to the end of the ice box, an industrial revolution, the Great Depression, a World War, the computer age, space travel, unraveling of our DNA, and amazing discoveries in our Universe. His path included a Master's Degree in Physics, advanced studies in Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, and working hard while raising a family with his devoted wife, Edy, who preceded him in death. Dad is survived by four of his five children; Will Schmidt Jr., Tom Schmidt, Teri Richardson, and Cindy Azar. His oldest daughter, Rosemary Rutledge, sadly passed away before him. He was blessed with 11 Grandchildren and four Great Grandchildren. Dad is also survived by a dear friend and "family member," Alberta. Alberta remains a part of our family and I know Dad would join us in thanking Alberta for her unselfish devotion and sacrifice to our family over the years. Dad retired from Sandia National Labs. He also worked at Los Alamos during WWII as a Scientist and Engineer where he helped pioneer the end of the war. He had the privilege of working amongst the most distinguished scientists of that era. However, Dad slowly realized the discoveries he once cherished were killing our planet and would one day destroy mankind if our course remained unchecked and thus devoted his last years to harnessing the energy of the atom in a non toxic manner. Based on his research, I believe he was successful! While his life's work on a number of high value projects took him to many interesting places, his greatest endeavor was to raise his children to be industrious, innovative, faithful, educated, and good neighbors. Dad once said "our success is based on the foundations which are given to us by our parents and our friends". Dad was selfless and always worked hard to make the lives of his family come first. He was simple, liked his space, and was always there with great advice. He was mostly patient and always kind and expressed his position with absolute certainty and no regret. Dad we all loved you in our special way. You left an imprint on everyone you came in contact with. We embraced your strong will, independence, creative genius, and your expansive appreciation for the opera and classical music. You once said, after losing Mom that "The pain of grief is like an invisible bridge to memories which we will never give up." We will always be connected by that invisible bridge. You once questioned whether people have wings in Heaven or not - I believe you finally have the answer. Godspeed Dad! Please visit the online guestbook for Willard at . FRENCH - Lomas 10500 Lomas Blvd. NE (505) 275-3500