Schmidt, Willie Arthur (1912-2000)

Mennonite Brethren Herald obituary: 2000 May 12 p. 28

Birth date: 1912 Feb 2

Text of obituary:

WILLIE ARTHUR SCHMIDT

Willie (Bill) Arthur Schmidt of Abbotsford, B.C passed away suddenly Mar. 26 of a heart attack. He was born Feb. 2, 1912 to August B. and Sara Schmidt in Dalmeny, Sask. At 12, he accepted Christ. He attended the University of Saskatchewan for 1 year and Hepburn (Sask.) Bible School. He worked for a short time in a gold mine in Timmins, Ont. In 1933 he moved to Yarrow, B.C He worked with his father and brother in construction as Schmidt and Sons, building many houses and some of the first hip roof barns in the Fraser Valley. He married Helen Stubbe Aug. 5, 1937 in Sumas, Wash. In 1947 he recommitted his life to the Lord. They attended Millar Memorial Bible Institute in Pambrun, Sask. While attending school, he built a house for a staff member. They served with SIM in Ethiopia, where he built residences, hospitals, clinics, schools and leprosariums and renovated the SlM headquarters and many other places. He always had morning devotions with his crew. His first convert, Amdeyesus, is now a pastor. He was known for his cheerful spirit, whistling and singing as he worked. He loved to hunt and play table games. After the communist revolution in Ethiopia, they semi-retired to Abbotsford. He did carpentry work at MEl and Columbia Bible Camp. He also did many renovations and built his own house. He and Helen led a care group in the church and served on the festival committee. He loved singing and joined Men of Song. They later moved to a townhouse. They served with the Helping Hands ministry. As walking became difficult, he spent much time in prayer. Predeceased by 1 brother, he is mourned by Helen; son Russ; 5 brothers and 4 sisters. A memorial service was held Mar. 31 in Central Heights MB Church, Abbotsford.