Fredrick J. "Papa" Schmidt Sr.

Fredrick J. Schmidt, Sr., age 81, of Huntley, passed away peacefully with his family surrounding him on January 1, 2026.
Fred was born on April 29, 1944, in Snover, Michigan, the son of George and Ida (Shaw) Schmidt. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Fred worked for American Airlines retiring after 35 years.
On September 29, 1988, Fred married Ronnaleigh Bieze. Fred and Ronnaleigh made their home in Del Webb of Huntley, a community where they were very active and formed many lasting friendships.
Fred loved deeply and lived fully. He was an avid model train enthusiast, a Knight of Columbus, and a member of the Huntley American Legion. His greatest joy was his family-especially his grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as "Papa."
Fred is survived by his beloved wife, Ronnaleigh; his daughters, Christine (Tim) Brady, Annette (Daniel) Jackson, and step-daughter Margaret (Rodney) Smith; daughter-in-law, Courtney Tiner-Schmidt; and his ten grandchildren: Victoria, Grant, Cole, Quinn, Madeline, Connor, Caraleigh, Hayden, Clayton, and Landon. He is also survived by his brother, David Schmidt, and his sister, Rita (Brian) McNeely. As well as his beloved dog Bandit.
He was preceded in death by his son, Frederick Schmidt Jr. (Courtney Tiner) his parents; and his siblings, Dick (Mary), Paul (Beverly), and Tony (Edie).
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at DeFiore Funeral Home, Dundee Road, Huntley. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Church in Hampshire. Burial will follow at St. Charles Borromeo Cemetery in Hampshire.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. Charles Borromeo / St. Vincent de Paul Society.
For further information, please contact DeFiore Funeral Home at 847-515-8772, or leave online condolences at www.defiorefuneral.com.