Ted Eugene Schmidt, 62

Ted Eugene Schmidt, 62, of rural White River SD, passed away on January 20, 2017. He passed away while doing what he loved, working with his cattle. Viewing was held at the White River Community Events Center, on Thursday, January 26, 2017, at 9:30, and the Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. The burial will follow, at the White River cemetery.

On December 30, 1954, Ted entered this world the 2nd born child to Theodore “Ted” and Jean (Reichardt) Schmidt, in Valentine NE. Ted joined an older brother, David (Sandy) Schmidt, later came his younger brother, Ray (Debra) Schmidt, and younger sister Sally Parsons.

Ted attended Mitchell Country School, in Mellette County, through the 8th grade. From there he attended White River High School and graduated in 1973. In May of 1976, Ted married Candace (Hanson) Schmidt, who unexpectedly passed away in September of 1999. To this union 4 children were born, Steve (Kim) Schmidt, Dan (Alyssa) Schmidt, Candy Kaye Schmidt, and the late Jacob Norman Schmidt. Ted worked on the family ranch with his dad until 1991, when his parents moved into town. At that time, Ted took over the family ranch on his own.

In July of 2006, Ted began another chapter in his life when he married Barb Shedeed. To this union, Ted received a step daughter, Teri (Brad) Biggins.
Ted was a friend to everyone he met. He always saw the good in everyone and enjoyed their company. He thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors which included hunting, fishing and trapping. He could often be seen coyote hunting with his dogs. In his earlier years, his hunting and trapping helped to support the family. For the past several years, he ran a guided deer hunting service and from this, gained some wonderful friends. Everyone knew when Ted was in the vicinity because of his infectious laugh. He enjoyed helping others with anything they needed, from putting out fires to helping neighbors with farm work. For the last several years Ted played on a dart league. He wasn’t proud of his dart ability but no one had more fun than he did. He was also a member of the Wood Fire Department, and a current Mellette County Commissioner.

Ted was a father figure to so many people other than his own kids. He dearly loved spending time with his grandchildren. They were the pride of his life.