Kenneth "Kenny" William Schmidt

Kenneth “Kenny” William Schmidt was born December 23, 1948, in Salem, Oregon, to William Werner and Pearly Mae (Jenson) Schmidt. He graduated from Stayton High School in 1967. After attending a year of college, Kenny was drafted into the Army to serve in Vietnam with the 25th Infantry Division. Before he headed off to war, Kenny married his high school sweetheart, Valerie Jean Chytka, on October 7, 1968. When Kenny returned from Vietnam, he went to work for Norpac where he had worked in high school and college. He and Valerie settled in Sublimity and raised a son and daughter.More than anything, Kenny loved his family. He was happily married to Valerie for over 51 years and was a wonderful father to his children. Kenny also had a strong bond with Valerie’s siblings, as he was in their life since they were young. And he absolutely adored his grandchildren, attending all their sporting events, even if he had to drive and hour to be there. Kenny and his granddaughter had a special bond.Although Kenny was a quiet and private person, he was extremely helpful and giving to anyone in need, especially his family. He would drop whatever he was doing to help others. Kenny spent a lot of time at his daughter and son-in-law’s home working on projects with them. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles and camping. Kenny was a very detail oriented and organized person and committed to what he started. He remained with Norpac until he retired, working his whole life for one company. Kenny also remained faithfully devoted to his high school sweetheart until his final breath.On May 18, 2020, Kenny passed-away suddenly at his home in Sublimity. The profound loss felt by his family is testament to the depth of love they shared. He was preceded in death by both of his parents and his brother Jerry Schmidt. Kenny is survived by his beloved wife Valerie; children Jennifer (John) Schmidt-Elkins and Kyle (Shannon) Schmidt; grandchildren Owen Schmidt, Korbyn Schmidt, and Jesse Elkins; and sister Janet Schmidt.A graveside service will be held later this summer when COVID restrictions are lifted, details will be updated as plans are made.