Paul Schmidt

Paul Aymard Schmidt, a resident of Regina, SK, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, October 12, 2023. He was 96 years old. Paul was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Joyce Schmidt, as well as his parents, John and Annie, sisters Mildred Winkler, Catherine Callaway, and Evelyn Heiberg, and brothers Robert, Roy, and Louis Schmidt. Sadly, he also lost his granddaughter Emily Matthewson. Left behind to cherish his memory are his daughters Lorie (Bruce) Matthewson, Darlene (James) Hillis, and Rosanne (John) Goetz, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings Norman Schmidt and Theresa Diekrager.

Paul was born on January 31, 1927, in Lang, SK. He grew up on the family farm with his parents and eight siblings. His parents had immigrated from Lincoln, Nebraska in 1920. From a young age, he assisted with chores and worked during harvest season. During his late teens, Paul found employment at the Drake Hotel in Regina, where his infectious smile and captivating blue eyes charmed the guests. He also tried his hand at Burns Meat Packing, but ultimately decided that farming was his true passion. He often reminisced about the joy he experienced during those early job experiences, which helped shape his quick wit and love for socializing.

At a party hosted by mutual friends, Paul met Joyce, and their relationship blossomed over the years. Finally, on a snowy October 10, 1959, they exchanged vows and embarked on a journey of love and companionship. They bought their first home on Lacon Street in Regina and worked diligently to save up for a farmhouse. In 1960, they relocated to Angus Street, where they resided until 2018. In 1964, they acquired a house in Regina, which they moved to their new homestead near Milestone. While the family spent winters in the city, Paul dedicated his time to farm work from May to October. He took pride in maintaining a well-organized operation, diligently tending to seeding, harvesting, and equipment maintenance. Paul abundantly added buildings and ensured their impeccable upkeep, while also nurturing a beautiful yard with over 100 trees. He relished having family and friends over, hosting enjoyable wiener roasts, and sharing the delights of their homestead, which featured playhouses, bouncing tires, minibikes, and go-carts for all to enjoy.

Throughout the years, Paul ventured into various jobs in Regina to provide for his family, including painting and plumbing. He balanced work with building cherished memories through gatherings with loved ones in Lang, attending fall suppers, skating carnivals, sports days, and Christmas get-togethers. His dedication to family was unwavering, evident in his efforts to travel back and forth to spend time with Joyce and their daughters. After bidding farewell to the farm and retiring in 1996, he and Joyce spent winters at the Trails End Trailer Park in Texas, where they actively engaged in community activities and formed enduring friendships. Meanwhile, in Regina, Paul wholeheartedly supported his grandchildren, attending their sporting events with unmistakable enthusiasm. He became a familiar face at the University of Regina basketball games, proudly wearing Cougar gear. Throughout his retirement, he maintained a bustling social life, meeting friends for coffee and enjoying walks in his Lakeview neighborhood. Known as a skilled handyman, he would fearlessly tackle any repair project that came his way. Each week, the family eagerly gathered together for “Schmidt coffees,” a tradition that continued even on holidays.

After leaving Angus Street, Paul and Joyce moved into Marian Chateau, where they gradually adjusted to their new home. Paul quickly formed bonds with new coffee buddies and actively participated in events. He persistently pursued quality time with his children and grandchildren, frequently joining them for breakfasts, dinners, and sports activities. His gregarious nature allowed him to genuinely enjoy socializing and make the most of his surroundings. When Joyce passed away in 2022, Paul experienced the loss of his best friend and lifelong companion. Together, they embodied a remarkable love and unwavering devotion. In the following years, Paul relocated multiple times to find the right care and a comfortable environment. Until a few weeks before his passing, he continued to connect with family and friends, engaging in heartfelt conversations and recounting cherished memories and stories from the farm. The family remains deeply grateful to Germaine MacInnis, whose dedicated friendship and care brought joy to Paul’s final year. They also extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Marian Chateau, Wintergreen Estates, Riverbend Crossing Memory Care, and Precious Memories, as well as Unit 5E at General Hospital, for their exceptional support, friendship, and compassionate care.

A mass to honor Paul’s life will be held at Christ the King Roman Catholic Parish in Regina, SK, on Friday, November 3, 2023, at 4:00 p.m., followed by a social gathering at Speers Family Centre. The family kindly requests no flowers. Those who wish to do so may make donations in Paul’s memory to the Hospitals of Regina Foundation. Online condolences may be left at http://www.speersfuneralchapel.com.