Paul worked for the Social Security Administration as a claims representative for over 35 years. He was a member of St. Mary and St. Augustine Catholic Church, Belleville, IL. Paul was a United States Army veteran who proudly served his country during the Vietnam War.
Paul was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was at his happiest when he was surrounded by his five granddaughters. It was not uncommon to see him playing on the floor with the girls or sitting patiently while he got a makeover! In his free time, P.J. enjoyed fishing at the Smithton Sportsman Club where he was a member for over 40 years.
He was preceded in death by a son, Paul J. “Paulie” Schmidt, III; and his parents, Paul J. Sr. and Minta, nee Faith, Schmidt.
Surviving are his wife of 49 years, Dorothy “Jeanie”, nee Feigl, Schmidt, whom he married on February 19, 1972; a son, Ryan Schmidt (Jessica Scott); a daughter, Emily (David) Voellinger; five grandchildren, Riley Schmidt, Cecilia Schmidt, Caroline Schmidt, Lillian Voellinger, and Madilyn Voellinger; three brothers, Gary Schmidt, Mark (Debbie) Schmidt, and Thomas (Rhonda) Schmidt; a sister, Cathy (Mike) Wilson; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Memorials may be made in the form of masses, to the Special Olympics, or to the Wounded Warrior Project. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 20, 2021, and from 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 21, 2021, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 21, 2021, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Msgr. William McGhee officiating.
Burial with military honors will be at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.