Fred Schmidt, 95, Minot, formerly of the Sawyer area, died Monday, February 22, 2010 at a hospital in Minot.

Fred was born February 5, 1915 near Sawyer, North Dakota the son of John and Francisca (Albus) Schmidt. He was raised on a farm near Sawyer and educated at country schools in the area, graduating from Velva High School in 1932. During his younger years, he worked at the Vix Coal Mines near Sawyer.

Fred was united in marriage to Katherine Steffan on September 6, 1938 at Minot. They made their home on a farm south of Sawyer, until they purchased farmland in Sawyer Township of Ward County. Throughout the years, they raised small grains, beef and dairy cattle, as well as other livestock. Fred and Katherine also owned and operated the Velva Laundromat for more than twelve years. They moved into Minot in 1977, and retired from farming in 1980.

Katherine died January 27, 1999. Fred had continued to live in Minot and most recently had been a resident of Edgewood Vista.

Fred was a longtime member of Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren Church, Minot, a former member of the Sawyer City Council and served the Sawyer community as Mayor. He also had served on the Board of Directors for the Sawyer Farmer's Elevator, Northwest Bible College and Sawyer School Board. Fred enjoyed bowling and had participated in leagues well into his 90's, and played with the NorthHill Senior Team and was a member of the 300 Club.

Fred is survived by : Children, Vernetta (James) Corbett, Billings, MT, Dennis (Ruth) Schmidt, Minot, and Harlyn (Beverley) Schmidt, Manteno, Ill; Grandchildren, Timothy Corbett, Willliam Corbett, Kelly Lange, Lanetta Greenlee, Jonathan Schmidt and Mark Schmidt; 11 Great-Grandchildren, 1 Great Great-Grandchild; several nieces, nephews and cousins; 4 Sisters-in-law: Martha Faul, Ruth Zimbelman, Sarah Shippy and Laura Forthun; and special family friend, Elsie Bostow.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, wife, daughter, Nancy Schmidt, son, Myron Schmidt and 10 brothers and sisters.

Funeral servic e: Friday, February 26, 2010 at 2:00pm. in Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren Church, Minot.
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Visitation: Thursday from 2:00-7:00pm in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.Memorials are preferred to Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren Church Building Fund, Christian School or organization of the donor's choice.