Fern L. Schmidt

1927 - 2016

Fern Lorraine Schmidt, 89, of Jefferson Hills, died Friday, May 27, 2016, at home. She was born Jan. 20, 1927, in Jefferson Borough, the daughter of the late Frank and Matilda Theiss Tignanelli. She was the wife of the late John "Johnny" Schmidt who died in 2001. If you were lucky enough to know Fern, you know how truly special she was. Even if you met her just once, you would remember her forever. Her life is one to celebrate, because she certainly lived it to its fullest. She met her husband, Johnny, after he came to Pittsburgh from Germany. They were the type of couple we all strive to be - partners in love and life. In the beginning of their marriage, they moved to Alaska where Johnny drove a bakery truck and Fern waitressed until they saved enough money to move back home and start a business. In 1950, they opened Johnny's Drive-In in West Elizabeth, home of the Fern-created "Monster Burger." Here, they started a family with their daughter, Debbie. Fern loved her family and loved her animals. In fact, the only thing more popular than the Monster Burger at Johnny's was Fern's pet monkey who was a local celebrity. After successfully operating Johnny's for more than 20 years, they opened Shop-and-Go and a ceramics business in Jefferson Hills. Fern was the most generous and hardworking person you'd ever meet. She was giving and compassionate and if there was critter in need, she came to the rescue. She was a modern day Snow White. If you have ever lost a pet, be assured they have a new best friend in heaven. She was funny and witty, smart and inspiring. She loved pina coladas, wore capri pants before they were in style, and no one could rock a beehive like her. She was a traveler, an adventurer, a businesswoman and a Florida Girl at heart. Although we will miss her every day, we have so many beautiful memories and stories to cherish forever. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Pigozzi, of Jefferson Hills; grandchildren, Heidi Vandenberg, Jeff Pigozzi and Julie (Matthew) Koczko; son-in-law, Bill Pigozzi; and special friends, Ida, Elva and Becki.
There is no visitation. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by the GILBERT FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY INC., Boston, Elizabeth Township (Drew J. Gilbert, director).
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Animal Friends in honor of Fern's love for our furry companions. www.ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org. Condolences may be made at gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.