Linda Schmidt

Linda Schmidt, 87, passed away at Kidron Bethel Village in North Newton, on Tuesday, February 24, 2015. Linda was born to Samuel J. and Selma (Funk) Banman on November 30, 1927. Her birth took place in the family home near Goessel.

Following her graduation from Goessel High School, Linda was employed as a telephone operator in Goessel, and then as bookkeeper at Crossroads Co-op. It was while working at the Co-op that she met John D. Schmidt. They were married on September 16, 1954, at Goessel Mennonite Church. While Linda raised her children, she was not employed outside the home. For many years she was a custom seamstress, doing anything from alterations to creating formal gowns. When her children were all in school fulltime, she worked at Faith and Life Press, primarily processing orders for Sunday School materials for churches throughout the United States and Canada. She worked in this capacity for 17 years.

Linda was a charter member of Faith Mennonite Church. She served in many capacities, such as teaching Sunday School, Bible School and serving on many service committees. Faith was her church home until her death.

After her retirement, she and John traveled extensively. They visited all 50 states, Canada, Mexico and several countries in Europe. Much of this travel was via bus tours, where they established many good friendships. They also maintained a big garden at their home in Newton, and also one out in the country on ground owned by their daughter and son-in-law. Much of the produce was preserved by canning or freezing and making jelly. Excess produce was sold at the Newton Farmer’s Market. This was an endeavor they enjoyed, again making many friends. Linda was also famous for her pies.

Linda is survived by her husband, John, of Kidron Bethel. Son Richard (Pam) Schmidt of North Newton, daughter Terri (Leslie) Wedel of Goessel, and son Steve (Dawn) Schmidt of Moundridge. Also surviving are grandsons Bret Schmidt of Newton and Luke Schmidt of Lawrence. Granddaughters Janessa (Neal) Walters of Andover and Lindsey Wedel of Goessel. Surviving siblings are Mary Ann Bartel of Alberta, Canada, Leroy Banman of Hesston and Kermit (Dolores) Banman of Hesston, and sisters-in-law Edmah (Irvin) Boese of Goessel and Irene Banman of Newton.

Linda was preceded in death by brothers Milton and Paul, sister Elda, and infant sisters Alice, Dorothy and Bernice.

Family visitation will take place in Fellowship Hall at Faith Mennonite Church, 2100 N.  Anderson, Newton, from 6:30 – 8:00 on Thursday. Memorial services will be held on Friday, February 27 at 2:00 at Faith Mennonite Church. Memorials have been established for Faith Mennonite Church and Mennonite Central Committee.

Petersen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.