Roll Call Tribute

William A. "Bill" Schmidt, LTC USA (Ret) 

November 2, 1937 - November 14, 2024 

William “Bill” Aloys Schmidt, 87, of Springfield, MO, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on November 14, 2024, at Cox Hospital in Springfield, surrounded by the love of his family. Bill was born on November 2, 1937, in Aurora, MO, to Aloys and Marie (Birkenbach) Schmidt.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Margaret (Sullivan) Schmidt; sons Eric (Angie) Schmidt of Springfield, MO, Henry (Deanna) Schmidt of St. Louis, MO, Aloys (Jennie) Schmidt of Clever, MO; and daughter Amy (Charles) Cook of Springfield, MO. Bill is also survived by his sisters Clara (Leo) Weiss of Chicago, IL, and Mildred (Jim, deceased) Schumacher of Springfield, MO, along with 14 grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Aloys and Marie Schmidt, his brother Kenneth (Monica), and his beloved aunts, uncles, in-laws, and grandparents.

Early Life and Education
Bill grew up in Monett, MO, and following in his dad’s footsteps with encouragement from his uncle, Fr. Clement, he attended his high school years at Subiaco Academy in Subiaco, AR. He graduated high school in 1955 and continued his education at Missouri State University (MSU) in Springfield, MO, where he worked hard to pay his own way. At MSU, Bill was actively involved in the Jazz Band and the Sigma Pi fraternity. A pivotal decision in his life came when he joined ROTC, setting him on a path to a distinguished career in the United States Army.

Military Service and Career
After graduating from MSU in 1960, Bill began his military service by being commissioned an officer and sent to serve in Korea. When he returned to the U.S. he began a tour at Fort Sill, OK, while starting a family with his lovely bride, Margaret. Also, while in OK, he met Leo, who would become one of his best friends and, after introducing him to his sister, his brother-in-law. He served multiple assignments both in the U.S. and abroad, including Germany (twice), Texas, Kansas, New York, and Illinois. From 1967-1968, Bill served a tour during the Vietnam War. Following his return from Vietnam, he earned a Master of Science in Statistics from Texas A&M University (1970). From 1971-1975 he was given one of his greatest honors by being assigned and serving as a mathematics instructor at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York.

Bill retired from the Army as a decorated Lieutenant Colonel in 1980. Throughout his military career, he and Margaret made the most of every assignment, exploring new locations and creating lasting memories with their children.

Post-Military Career and Hobbies
After retiring from the Army, Bill returned to Springfield, MO, where he embarked on a new career path. He taught mathematics at Missouri State University and owned and operated real estate properties. At 70 years old, Bill also fulfilled a lifelong dream of owning a farm and raising cattle just like his grandfather had. By the time he was 80, he had transitioned from farming to buying and flipping homes. In his free time, Bill enjoyed fishing, bowling, playing bingo, listening to Elvis, playing cards, reading western and spy novels, visiting auctions, watching the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals, and visiting with family and friends every chance he could.

Legacy
Bill's commitment to his family was unwavering. He was known for his wisdom, generosity, and the advice he shared with those he loved. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, always making time to support others.

Visitation and Services
The family invites friends and family to a visitation on Monday, November 25th, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home in Springfield, MO. Graveside services with military honors will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the National Cemetery in Springfield.