Arthur Schmidt

On the morning of December 10th, 2013, we lost a great man. Arthur David Schmidt passed away after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, a year after his initial diagnosis. He left behind his high school sweetheart and wife, Jackie, to whom he was married for 50 years (and 3 days). He is also survived by his 4 children; Joseph, Susan, Jennifer, and Jason and 4 grandchildren; Katy, Alex, Ava, and Max Schmidt. He was born on October 17, 1942 in Milwaukee, WI. Art was a hard-working, strong, and incredibly loving man. He could usually be found riding his Harley Davidson or working in his shop with Jackie, listening to country music and taking her in his arms for an impromptu dance when Waylon Jennings played. His charming, soft-spoken demeanor set him apart from others and he was always described as a great listener. His most prominent attribute was how he cared for others, most especially his family. His amazing personality served him well from his high school speed-skating days through the time he served as the Deputy Commissioner of Corrections for the state of Alaska, indeed he was caring and loving right until the day he passed. Although he was physically defeated, his unassailable spirit will remain with us forever. The service will be held on December 21st at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church in Palmer. Directly following the funeral will be the Celebration of Life at 12:30 p.m., held at his son Jason's airplane hangar, Fabrications Unlimited, 3211 Travel Aire, Wasilla. May he be remembered as the honorable, caring man he has always been. Arrangements by Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel of Wasilla.