Edward Donald "Ed" Schmitt

It is with a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Edward Donald Schmitt on August 15th, 2025 at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center in Vancouver, WA. He was surrounded by his loving family until the end of his battle with colon/abdominal cancer. Ed fought valiantly, with grace and dignity until the end. Born in Portland, OR to Donald and Rosemarie Schmitt, Ed was the youngest of seven children. Ed is survived by Wife Cara, Son Andrew and Daughter Katy, Brothers Matt (Julie), Mark (Stacey), Greg (Jan), Pat (Maria), Fred (Karen), and Sister Beth, and many nieces and nephews. Graduating from Centennial High School where Ed met his future wife Cara, he went on to spend some time at the University of Oregon where he enjoyed his lifelong passion for politics in the political science program. Ed left college to work with the newly minted cellular phone industry with McCaw Cellular One communications (later to become AT&T Wireless). Advancing to national accessory product management, he made trips to China and Europe to oversee production of new items that would soon be sold in the AT&T stores. Never one to quit or give up on his dreams, Ed graduated from Portland State with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science in 2008. After moving to Vancouver in 2009, Ed worked for the Clark County Sheriff's Department, Vancouver Police Department and lastly for the Clark County Clerk's office in records and accounting positions. In 1994 Ed married Cara in Portland, Oregon and settled in their first home in Gresham near family. Children followed, as did Ed's primary role in life, as he was fortunate to be at home with them for a large portion of their childhood. His greatest joy in life was being a father to his son and daughter. He took great pleasure in encouraging them to learn new activities and experience all life has to offer. He introduced them to different cultural pursuits and ethnic foods, helped them with their homework and just enjoyed spending his time with them. He was very proud of their desire to pursue higher education, and his support was steadfast when both Andrew and Katy achieved Master's Degrees. Ed's most recent family trip was to Bozeman, Montana to celebrate Katy obtaining her Master's Degree in Economics. Always seeking knowledge, Ed enjoyed reading, staying up with current news events, and the ever-changing political landscape of our world. When not playing with the newest members of the family, cats Sunny and Willow, a favorite pastime for Ed was to watch the birds, bees and squirrels visit his manicured backyard. Gone too soon from our lives, we will miss his positive encouragement, wit and wisdom. He will leave a big hole in the hearts of all who loved him. In lieu of flowers, live outdoor plants or garden décor would be appreciated. Donations in his honor can be made to Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.