John C. Schmidt

John C. Schmidt, 82, of Washington, Illinois peacefully passed away in his sleep at his home in Washington, IL on September 7, 2025. Born on May 1, 1943, in Peoria, IL, he was the beloved son of Florentina J. (Schoning) Schmidt and Clifford X. Schmidt.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Paula (Doty) Schmidt; three children, Darrin Schmidt and his spouse Frank DeVito of Thousand Oaks, California, Duran Schmidt of Peoria, IL, and Karmin (Schmidt) Sims and her spouse Gordon Sims of East Peoria, IL; and five cherished grandchildren, Samantha Sims of Washington, IL, Kaidon Sims and Miranda Sims of East Peoria, IL, and Marco and Adria DeVito of Thousand Oaks, California. One sister and one brother also survive.

He began his education at LaFayette, a one room school house on Shuck Road in Washington, IL, where he proudly graduated as the only member of his 8th grade class (good job, John!). He went on to graduate from Washington Community High School in 1961. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy Reserves for two years, receiving an honorable discharge in 1963.

He later began his career at Caterpillar, where he worked at the Technical Center and retired after 32 years of service. During that time, he was also a registered apprentice barber from 1969 to 1973. In 1995, John furthered his career at Illinois Central College, where he worked until his retirement in 2012.

John enjoyed scouting as a young man and later shared that passion with his sons. He also loved spending time outdoors and camping. He had a lifelong passion for cars, particularly models from the 1930s, and enjoyed working on them as well as attending local car shows. John also loved roller skating, biking, listening to live bluegrass and country music, and spending time with friends and loved ones. Above all, he deeply loved his family and treasured every moment with them.

Cremation rites have been accorded through Mason-White funeral home in Washington, IL. No formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bible Methodist Church 818 E. London Avenue, Peoria Heights, IL 61616.