Obit: Schmidt, Clarence F. (1943 – 2021)

Contact: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon
E-mail: dolores@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Schmidt, Hedler, Burzinski, Wehlacz, Kotecki

----Source: Cremation Society of Wisconsin (Altoona, Eau Claire Co., WI) 11/15/2021

Schmidt, Clarence F. (1 January 1943 – 14 November 2021) With Flag

Clarence F. Schmidt, 78, of Thorp, passed away Sunday, November 14, 2021, at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls, under the care of St. Croix Hospice.

Clarence was born January 1, 1943, in Thorp to Frank and Ellen (Hedler) Schmidt. He is a 1960 graduate of Thorp High School. He enlisted in the US Army after high school where he served in the 77th Transportation Division in Europe and played semiprofessional football for the Army on the Cavaliers. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to the area and held several various jobs. He married Gail Burzinski on October 8, 1966, at St. Hedwig’s Catholic Parish in Thorp. He attended CVTC and earned his certificate as a Sheet Metal Journeyman.

He joined the Union and traveled throughout the country working construction. He and Gail returned to Thorp in the early 70’s and accepted the position of head of maintenance at Thorp School District until 1995. He then worked sheet metal again for a short time until his retirement.

Clarence loved the outdoors, especially when he was hunting. He and Gail raised many horses and animals on their hobby farm. He enjoyed being a member of the Krakowiak Polka Club listening and dancing to polka music with Gail. He loved to travel and spend time with his pets.

Clarence is survived by his wife of 55 years, Gail of Thorp; daughter, Stacie Schmidt of Holmen; brother, Clifford (Joan); sister, Lucetta Wehlacz both of Thorp and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Evelyn Kotecki and Clement Schmidt.

Clarence’s family would like to thank the staff of the Veterans Home and St. Croix Hospice for their amazing care and compassion.

Cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of life may take place at a later date.

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