Laura Schmelzer

Laura Jane Schmelzer (née Alt), a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on March 4, 2025, in Portland, Oregon, with her loving family by her side. Born on August 4, 1941, at St. Mary's Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, Laura carried her New York spirit with her throughout her life.

The daughter of Eugene Charles and Isabella (Smart) Alt, Laura was raised with strong values and a deep commitment to education. She graduated from The Mary Louis Academy, an experience that shaped her lifelong love of learning. She pursued higher education at Hunter College and later earned her Bachelor of Health Science degree from the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC).

On March 3, 1962, Laura married Frederick G. Schmelzer at St. Elizabeth's Church in Ozone Park, NY, beginning a 61-year partnership filled with love, adventure, and family until Fred's passing in 2023. Together, they built a life rich with travel, friendships, and shared experiences.

Laura was known for her sharp mind, strong opinions, and unwavering sense of self. She never lost her New York edge, bringing a confident and determined spirit to everything she did. A devoted reader of the daily newspaper, she followed current events closely and was always ready to share her insights. Even in the face of health challenges, her resilience and fortitude never wavered.

She is survived by her three children: Robert (Beth), Linda Ryan (Michael), and Raymond (Jill); her beloved grandchildren: Alston and Caroline Schmelzer, Sean and Garrett Ryan, and Anna Marie Schmelzer; and her sisters Katherine O'Neill and Hanna Sprenkel. She also leaves behind many loving nieces, nephews, and friends. She was predeceased by her brother, Eugene Alt.

Laura spent much of her career as a medical technologist, beginning at Lexington Medical Center after moving to South Carolina in 1977. She later worked for Bionetics at Kennedy Space Center in Florida before returning to South Carolina, where she served as a medical technologist at the Department of Corrections. She took pride in her work, mentoring younger colleagues and advocating for expanded opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in her field.

Laura and Fred had a gift for making friends wherever they lived. In 2006, they retired to Atlanta, Georgia, where they enjoyed road trips across the country with their beloved dog, Casey. Their travels took them to national parks, family visits, and new friendships-a pattern that followed them in every place they called home.

Laura had a deep love for travel, with Lake Como, Italy, holding a special place in her heart. She and Fred also explored Ireland, Greece, Canada, and beyond, embracing every new experience with curiosity and enthusiasm.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Regency Park Assisted Living in Portland, where Laura spent her final year receiving excellent care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alight (formerly the American Refugee Committee), honoring Laura's lifelong belief in creating opportunities for those in need (www.wearealight.org).

Laura Jane Schmelzer will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to family, her keen intellect, and her adventurous spirit. Her strong character and loving presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.