Ludwig J. Schmidt

WASHINGTON?Ludwig J.Schmidt, 84, of Washington, Ill., passed away at 1:50 a.m. Wednesday, November 7, 2012, at St. Francis in Peoria where he had been a patient since October 15. He was born, May 15, 1928, in Peoria, Ill., to Wilhelm and Frieda (Abegg) Schmidt. He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years Roberta E. Lindenberger, whom he married on July 22, 1951. Surviving are his children, Terry (Candace) Schmidt of Wildwood, Missouri, and Julia (Michael) Coffman of Metamora, Illinois and grandchildren Neil and Gregory Coffman, and Christina Schmidt. He is also survived by two sisters, Elsa Keas of Pekin, Doretta Godby of Washington and a nephew and four nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents and one niece. Ludwig was known as a hard-working man who was very devoted to his family, his church, and his community. For over 50 years Ludwig was employed by Model Glidden Wallpaper and Paint Company in downtown Peoria. "Smitty" spent time as a retail salesman inside the store and as a wholesale salesman, calling on hardware stores, paint stores, and lumber yards in the Peoria area. He enjoyed attending concerts, performances, and athletic events both of his children and grandchildren. As a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran church in Peoria, Ludwig sang in the church choir, and he served on several committees and as president of the congregation. He also served as congregational and synod president of the Lutheran Men in Mission. In May 1976, Ludwig was selected as Tazewell Publishing Company?s Citizen of the Month for his contributions to the youth in the community of Washington. He served as vice president of the Washington Recreation Association, and worked with the Little League program for five years, and was in charge of the Pony League program besides being a coach. Additionally, he was involved with the Washington Jaycees. Besides his contributions to his church and his community, Ludwig was also known for his hobby of growing roses for exhibition. A highlight of the hobby was winning the Governor?s trophy at the Illinois State Fair in 1970. He also served as President and board member of the Greater Peoria Rose Society and as a Consulting Rosarian for the American Rose Society. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, November 12, 2012, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Peoria, with Reverend William Dohle officiating. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, November 11, 2012, at Mason White Funeral Home in Washington and also one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Hillcrest Memory Gardens south of Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the St. Paul Lutheran Church Memorial Fund or the Central/Southern Illinois Synod Lutheran Men in Mission Seminary Fund.