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George Kurt Schmidt
January 2, 1939 - March 29, 2021
Tribute
It is with great sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of dear George on March 29, 2021 at the age of 82 with Karin, his loving wife and soul-mate of 42 years at his side.
George was born in Riga, Latvia January 2, 1939 and immigrated to Canada with his family at age 15 in 1954.
George didn’t like the word retirement and worked until his passing. He was a polite, patient gentleman who loved what he did, persevering through many obstacles and challenges with foresight and wisdom. Nothing was too big for him.
George fought hard for what he believed, in a calm, quiet way. George was a remarkable man with a generous spirit, and a great sense of humour, a loyal friend, a mentor to many, he had a story for everyone and loved telling a good joke. He was knowledgeable, grateful, and very proud of everything he accomplished in this lifetime. George loved the Cowichan Valley, it was home, where he went to school, started his family, made his career, was known for his Real Estate and Insurance Agencies and the Development of Timbercrest Estates, Cowichan Bay Estates and Osoyoos Ridge Developments. Most of all he wanted to drive through Cowichan Bay Estates when complete but sadly that couldn’t be.
George was a very kind and generous soul who would surprise Karin with gifts throughout the year and weekly flowers. Their travels took them on several trips to Denmark to visit Karin’s family with side trips to Spain, Germany and Holland. They enjoyed vacations to Hawaii, Alaska, the Oregon Coast, California, Nevada and the Okanagan where George was engaged in a development.
Travel to Cabos San Lucas Mexico was frequent and became their second home when Karin’s son Michael and wife Connie made it their home, especially when their youngest granddaughter, Chase, was born. Chase and her “Poppa” had a very special bond, spending many hours contemplating world issues and books, both being avid readers. One highlight was for George’s 60th birthday being treated to a Marlin fishing trip and catching a trophy Marlin.
George enjoyed regular golf games, including 4-some golf at Cordova Golf Course with good friends Jim, Keith and Bill. They also enjoyed Wednesday Mens Night at the Union Club. He loved to get together with friends for lunches or over a glass of wine.
George’s many hobbies over the years included: wine and liqueur making, his little red classic truck, boating, golf, and until an Achilles Tendon gave out; tennis, squash and racquetball.
George is survived by his wife Karin; siblings Horst, Ingrid, Heidi (Victor) and Gerd (Susan); as well as 3 children Kurt (Laurie), Kathy (George), Noreen (Don), Karin’s children David, Michael (Connie), 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. George was immensely proud of each and every one of his grandchildren and their achievements.
George accomplished so much in his life, his family and first class developments his lasting legacy. He will be truly missed by everyone who loved and knew him.
A Celebration of Life for George will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made in George’s memory to a charity of your choice.
Condolences
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From: H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre
H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: The Pyrch Family
Relation: George was a friend and customer
George Schmidt will be missed. He was a beloved friend to all of us who worked for and at the Best Western Cowichan Valley Inn. He will be missed by the servers, his friends there and all of the staff who got to know him through the years.
George was a man who always brought in his soul along with his smile. He always had kind words or a kind comment to pass along to the people who had the privilege of dealing with him whenever he came in. He always let you know he cared about you as much as he cared about whatever he was dealing with, and maybe that, was the piece of him that will be so badly missed by everyone.
George Schmidt will be missed by everybody who got to know him, and we all wish him, his wife Karin and all the rest of his family the very best that we can in these difficult and trying times.
From: Ferdinand Kallstrom
Relation: Friend
An old friend, gone but never forgotten. Our deepest sympathy, Marj and Ferd Kallstrom
From: Ulrich BRiner
Relation: A friend , a confidant, and a wonderful companion
Dear Karin: Ulrich Briner and Margot Page wish to send our condolences at the loss of dear George. It was a brief friendship we shared but will always be treasured.
From: Trish Kolk
Relation: An acquaintance of many years ago
My deepest sympathy to you and yours.
From: John & Delores Bird
Relation: Friend
Dear Karin, our deepest sympathy to you & all your family.
From: Les Campbell
Relation: Business Partner
Rest In Peace George! It has been a real pleasure working with you on our Osoyoos Project the past 5 years. Always appreciated your input and advice. Always the Gentleman! I’m so disappointed that we aren’t able to have that glass of wine together this summer we talked about. You will be missed!
From: David Messier
Relation: Friend
George will be missed by his friends at The Shipyard and Maple Bay Marina. I personally, will never forget his kind and thoughtful advice as we faced challenges in our lives. We will always be grateful he was part of our lives.
From: Connie Worth
Relation: Daughter in law
Father’s Day was not the same without you George. Sending our love to you. We miss you and think of you always. Love Mike, Connie and Chase.
From: Connie Worth
Relation: Daughter in law
Father’s Day was not the same without you George. Sending our love to you. We miss you and think of you always. Love Mike, Connie and Chase.
Service Schedule
Private service arrangements have been made.
Memorial Gifts
The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.
Thank You Notice
Send Flowers
Floral Tributes may be ordered at:
Blooms at 49th Parallel – 778-422-0262
Floral Bar at Party Mood – www.floralbar.ca or 250-701-3151
Floral Department at Thrifty Foods – http://floral.thriftyfoods.com/ or 250-715-2630
When ordering please have the name of the deceased, the date of the funeral service and the Funeral Home information.
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