Daniel Arthur Schmidt was born on September 13, 1938 to Henry and Mary Schmidt in Coaldale, Alberta. His first two years were spent on the family farm. After his father passed away in 1940 he moved into town with his mother and 3 month old sister Elvira. Danny grew up in Coaldale attending local schools. During high school he met his future wife Helen Willms.

In 1961, Danny married Helen. They moved to Lethbridge where Danny worked for the Bank of Montreal. His career progressed with promotions into management and moves taking him throughout Alberta and into the Northwest Territories.

Their first son, Stan, was born in Lethbridge, they then moved to Calgary where Lawrence was born, then to Wetaskiwin, where Sheldon was born.  From there they successively lived in Medicine Hat, Calgary (again), Valleyview, Yellowknife, Lloydminster, Wainwright and finally to Red Deer in 1990 where Danny retired in 1993, at age 55, after 37 years with the bank.

Over his career, from teller to bank manager to area manager, Danny earned the nickname “the little tank”, as he was repeatedly called on to do heavy work in branches that needed his trademark “get it done” attitude. Danny was always active in the community involved in Lions Club, Rotary, Gideons, charity functions, minor hockey, and in his local church.

Many people throughout western Canada counted Danny a good friend – always encouraged by his positive attitude and infectious laughter.

Through the years, it would always seem that Danny and Helen would be side by side. Whether it be serving in the community, hosting in their home, on long road trips in their beloved van, or enjoying an evening walk through the neighbourhood – they were always together.

After 57 years of marriage, Helen passed away in August of 2018. Danny moved into a retirement home in Red Deer shortly afterwards, but he missed her continually, and longed to be with her again…

Danny is survived by his sister, Elvira (Seigfried) Hiebert; son, Lawrence (Rosalind), their children Kennedy, Lucas and Jesse; son, Sheldon (Karen), their children Abby (Colton) and Koover; daughter-in-law, Cindy (Stan’s wife) and their children Miranda and Jeffrey.

A memorial service will be held for Danny Schmidt at the Lacombe First Baptist Church, on December 21, at 2:00 pm.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.eventidefuneralchapels.com

• Date : 2022-12-01
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home