Donald Arthur Schmidt

Donald Arthur Schmidt, age 70, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at his home in Austin. Donald was born on December 1, 1953, in Austin, Minnesota, to George and Nettie (Warnes) Schmidt. Don was a paper-shredder for Cedar Valley Services, and he loved his job and riding the bus to work every day. Don could always be found with a tennis ball in hand, and he enjoyed hearing kids yell and their voices. Despite his limited ability to communicate, his repeated chant of “Don, Don, Don” was a testament to his presence and personality. Most of all, Don loved food; his favorites were steak and potato chips. We find comfort in knowing Don is reunited with our parents and brother, Michael. 

Donald is survived by his siblings, Steve Schmidt of Park Rapids, Minnesota, Helen (Richard) Lee of Farmington, Minnesota, Fred (Pixie) Schmidt of Austin, and Vicky Helland of Pheonix, Arizonia; nieces and nephews, Shannon Schmidt, Kristen Schmidt, Jeff (Julie) Lee, John (Amy) Lee, Jennifer (Jason) Douglas, Kelly Janning, Robyn (Ryan) Bickler, Ryan Schmidt, Eric (Jennifer) Helland, and Tracey Carlisle; and many great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Nettie; and brother, Michael. 

A memorial service for Donald will be held later in the spring. Interment will be in St. Theodore’s Catholic Cemetery, Albert Lea, Minnesota. Mayer-Hoff Funeral Home of Austin is assisting the family with arrangements.