Richard J. Schmieder, Sr.

Richard J. Schmieder, Sr., 90, died peacefully on October 31, 2025.

Born in Newark to the late Joseph and Catherine Schmieder (nee Prechtl) he graduated from Weequahic High School, he went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Army. After his honorable discharge, he studied at The New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), which laid the foundation for a fruitful career spanning over 40 years at Bell Labs. There, he not only contributed to groundbreaking projects but also held a patent and earned the designation of Professional Engineer, underscoring his commitment to innovation and excellence.

Richard met the love of his life, Dorothy Marty, at a Catholic young adult group. They were married in 1960 marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership rooted in faith, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to family. The Schmieder’s settled in Warren, where they raised their family.

Mr. Schmieder was a devout Catholic and longtime parishioner of Our Lady of the Mount parish, where his faith guided his actions. He proudly served as a member of the Knights of Columbus and devoted many years to volunteering for Habitat for Humanity as well as being a mentor for Literacy of America.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid fisherman, enjoyed playing tennis and loved capturing moments of beauty around him through his photography. Known as the family handy man, he skillfully undertook building additions and renovations to his home and was always around to help out his children with projects on their own home.

Most of all, he was an adoring grandfather who enjoyed the quality time spent creating memories together as a family. His character and integrity were evident to all who knew him as he leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and strength.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Elmer Schmieder.

Surviving are his beloved wife, Dorothy R. Schmieder, his loving children, Roseanne Farrell and husband Pete, Richard Schmieder, Jr., and Katherine McCabe and husband Peter, his cherished grandchildren, Ashley Mohan and husband Bryan, Laura Farrell, Bridget McCabe, Meghan McCabe, Josh Farrell, Keira McCabe, and John McCabe.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

A Mass of Chrisitan Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at The Church of the Immaculate Conception, 35 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

Entombment to follow at Somerset Hills Memorial Park, 95 Mt Airy Road, Basking Ridge.