Charles “Chuck” John Michael Schmitt
June 23, 1967 – January 9, 2024
With heavy hearts we would like to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Charles John Michael Schmitt, a devoted father, son, partner, coworker and friend who passed away on January 9th, 2024. He is pre deceased by his mother Katriona (Kit); survived by his grieving father, Charles, two cherished children Molly (Cale) and Eric and leaves behind a grieving family including his loving partner Siobain and former wife Danna as well as Ava (Jaden), Carys, and Lily. He is also survived by Gord (Carm), Quincy (Tony), Donna and Darlene Zdebiak. Jaime (Pat), Shelley (Jason), and Jodi (Conor) as well as much loved nieces and nephews are grieving the loss of Chuck. The Moir family, Adam, Nancy, Emerson, Kate, Sarah, and Isla also have a special place in his heart.
Chuck worked 16 years at Dryden Regional Health Centre. His colleagues are his second family. Chuck was an invaluable member of the team at DRHC; he took great pride in his work and community, championing many important initiatives for the Hospital, including physician and employee recruitment, fundraising, and over the last few years, overseeing the monthly DRHC 50/50 draw. His commitment to his colleagues (through Staff for Staff, wellness, and variety of other committees) the Hospital, and the patients is unparalleled. Chuck made a significant impact on healthcare in our community.
Chuck is a person who dedicated himself to fostering community through his passion for sports. He developed a deep love for sports from a young age. His devotion to both the games of basketball and hockey and his community brought people together and uniting them. Chuck actively contributed to the world of sports as a player, coach, mentor, and referee. Chuck was not merely a spectator; he was a guiding force for his own children, coaching them through their athletic pursuits with support and love.
In the realm of officiating, Chuck earned respect for his fair judgment and commitment to the spirit of competition. Anyone who knew him knew he was an avid supporter of the Toronto Raptors, Winnipeg Jets, Dryden High School Athletics and SIJHL teams. His legacy as a coach, referee, and devoted sports enthusiast will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of sharing in his passion.
Chuck’s life extended beyond the world of sports; he was a devoted family man who understood the importance of individual connections. He prioritized one-on-one family time, creating special moments tailored to each member’s interests. He was an avid angler, he found joy by the water, enjoyed walks with his dog Mia (Puppy Chow), and crib and pancakes on Sundays with his dad.
Family outings held a special place in Chuck’s heart. Whether it was spontaneous trips or planned vacations, he cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, creating memories. Chuck is a person who embraced every aspect of life with a genuine and infectious enthusiasm always stating that life is a gift and that you only live once.
Although the pain of his loss feels impossible to bear, let us find comfort in the many memories we shared with Chuck and honour his memory by carrying forward his enduring love, compassion, and dedication to family, friends, co-workers, and the community.
The service will be live streamed at https://youtube.com/live/RqqljXMyNzY?feature=share
A Celebration of Life will take place on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at the Dryden High School with Pastor Brian Callewaert officiating. Interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dryden Minor Hockey, Box 141, Dryden ON P8N 2A7 or DHS Athletics, 79 Casimir Ave., Dryden, ON P8N 2H4 or DRHC Foundation, P.O. Box 3003, Dryden, ON P8N 2Z6.
Condolences may be posted www.dcfh.ca
Arrangements entrusted to the Dryden Community Funeral Home,
249 Grand Trunk Ave. Dryden, ON P8N 2X3
