John Allan Schmidt, Sr, of Castle Rock, Colorado, died peacefully in his sleep on July 17, 2024 at the age of 85. Born in New York on September 17, 1938, John grew up in New Jersey with loving parents  John Adolph and Claire Schmidt and younger brother Jimmy, all of whom predeceased him. He is survived by his former wife of 42 years, Bonnie Schmidt of Texas and his children, Catherine Schmidt-Jones of Pennsylvania, John Schmidt Jr of Colorado, and Melinda Scott of Colorado along with 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. 

John graduated from the Coast Guard Academy in 1960 and served in the Coast Guard until 1969, retiring with the rank of Lt. Cmdr. During his time in the Coast Guard, he was stationed in Turks & Caicos, Pennsylvania, Virginia, California, and New York. Upon his retirement, he moved his family to Dallas, Texas, where he spent the next 30 years as a stockbroker with EF Hutton and Rauscher Pierce Refsnes . He then spent 7  years as a middle school math teacher in Texas and Colorado. 

John’s favorite thing in the world was to spend time with his family. His children remember his love of camping and spending time outdoors. He could always be counted on to be in the audience for musical performances or in the stands for athletic events. John’s favorite people to spend time with were the “littles” in the family as the much loved Grandpa. Throughout his life, he was an avid swimmer, often competing in his favorite butterfly stroke. 

The family will be holding a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association.