Dennis Wayne Schmidt

Dennis W. Schmidt, fondly known as “DW”, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, January 8, 2024.

Dennis graduated from Kenmore High School located in Akron, Ohio in 1956. While in school he met the love of his life, Patricia Ann Bycura. They married on August 20, 1960.

While working two jobs, Dennis earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Management from University of Akron. Additionally, he completed the R.O.T.C. Program and received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. Dennis was assigned to the Signal Corps and served as a Procurement Officer for the United States Army handling multi-million dollar contracts.

After completing his term of service, Dennis was honorably discharged and began work as a manager in the rubber industry. During his thirty-six year career, he earned numerous awards to include the Vice President’s Award for Zero Defects while working at Firestone in Akron, Ohio. In 1980, Dennis’ professional endeavors brought the family to Wilson. After his retirement, Dennis began his second career at Lowe’s of Wilson, where he worked for nineteen years helping customers with their home improvement needs.

Dennis enjoyed spending time with his family, and a spirited game of cards always produced laughs. He enjoyed trips to the beach, a round of golf with family and friends, and a good book was his constant companion.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Patricia, fondly known as Pat, children Kurt D. Schmidt (Kim) of Wilson, Kristyn Schmidt Bass of Wilson, and Dr. Stephen L. Schmidt (Tricia) of Augusta, Georgia. He cherished time with his grandchildren: Connor K. Schmidt of Wilson, Reghan D. Schmidt of Wake Forest, Bryson R. Schmidt of Wilson, Hillary A. Bass of Knightdale, David Lee Bass of Oklahoma City, OK, Caroline B. Schmidt of Augusta, GA, Julia C. Schmidt of Augusta, GA, and Sarah L. Schmidt of Augusta, GA. He also enjoyed his time with numerous nieces and nephews.

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Edna Schmidt, his sister Diane Tetwiler, and brother David Schmidt.

A special thanks to Dr. Doug Brewer and his staff; Mary Burch, Betty Haney, Bernice Hodge, Christy McCallister and the caregivers from Gentiva Hospice and ComForcare Home Care Servies who provided exceptional care of our loved one.

Visitation will be 6:30 pm-8:30 pm at Joyner’s Funeral Home on Thursday, January 11th and a Celebration of Life Mass will commence at 1:30 pm on Friday, January 12th at St. Therese Catholic Church. Inurnment with Military Honors will immediately follow the Mass at St. Therese Columbarium.

Memorials can be made in honor of Dennis Schmidt to St. Therese Catholic Church, 700 Nash Street, Wilson, North Carolina 27893.