Harris J. Schmidt

Harris James "Harry" Schmidt, 80, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away on November 29, 2021. A husband, father, grandfather, friend, proud Navy veteran and small business owner, Harry was born on July 17, 1941, in Mandan, North Dakota to Robert and Lily Schmidt. A teenager in the 50s, he loved classic cars and rock and roll. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy after high school, where he served for four years. Following his Navy service, Harry returned to Milwaukee, Wisconsin where he worked in finance, met and married his first wife, and had three children, Michael, Thomas and James. He moved to Rhinelander, met his wife Linda and they married in 1984. They had two children together, Heather and Erin. The family moved to Minnesota in 1988, where he began a successful career in the manufactured housing business. He was proud to be able to provide for his family and to help thousands of people become first-time homeowners during his 30-year career. Harry was a kind, loving, and supportive husband and father. He loved “family productive time” and was usually behind the video or still camera, capturing important moments. Harry was an avid golfer, fisherman and nature lover. He cherished time with family and friends at his two favorite places, Pipe Lake and Cove Cay. Harry was predeceased by his father, Robert; his mother, Lily; and his brother, Robert (Bob). He is survived by his wife, Linda; his children, Heather (Mike), Erin (Yusuf), Michael, Thomas and James; and his grandchildren, Ryan, Emma, Tyler, and Sophia. A celebration of life will be planned with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society: support.nmcrs.org. Arrangements are being handled by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel.