Wilbert Schmidt, 96, Minot died Monday, October 5 at Souris Valley Care Center in Velva, after a 5 day battle with COVID-19.

Wilbert was born February 20, 1924 in Max to William and Philapina (Tiez) Schmidt.  After only 8 years of schooling he began farming with his father; a passion he carried with him for the remainder of his life.

Wilbert enlisted into the US Navy in 1944.  He served honorably and was discharged from active duty in 1946. After the war, he returned to ND where he married the love of his life, Laila Olson. They made their home and raised their family in South Prairie.

Throughout his life, Wilbert was a member of Our Redeemer's, Saron Lutheran, and the American Legion.  He served on the Freedom Township Board and the Farmers Union Elevator Board, in addition to being a 4H Leader and an active participant in the South Prairie School. Laila died September 29, 2005.

Wilbert will be remembered for his great sense of humor, his frugality, resilience, curiosity and his incredible work ethic. In addition to farming, Wilbert also worked as a coal hauler and a mechanic throughout the years. Above all else he loved God, his family, and the land.

Wilbert was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Laila, sons, Allen and Loren Schmidt, daughter, Trudy Schmidt and sisters, Agnes Polsfut, Elna Hudtl, Clara Giese and Adeline Berg.

Wilbert is survived by his daughters Caroline Mitchell and Connie Madden, both of Oregon; sister Lois Schmeichel, Minot, ND; grandchildren Clinton & Ian Mitchell (Caroline's) Kristian, Adrian & Tori Schmidt (Allen's), Vanessa Comella, Jessica Bride, Jeremy & Melissa Schmidt (Loren's), and Larkin Dahal (Connie's).

Private Graveside Service: Out of respect for your health and safety, the family has opted for a private graveside service at Rosehill Memorial Park in Minot. We encourage you to honor Wilbert's life by keeping your family safe during this very real pandemic.
Public Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2020 from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot. Due to pandemic, social distancing and masks are recommended for attendees.
Memorials are preferred to The Max Museum. Mailing address: POB #304 in Max, ND 58759

Wilbert Schmidt Flowers