Chester L. Schmidt

Chester L. Schmidt, 91, of Galva, Kansas, passed away Saturday, February 12, 2022 at The Cedars in McPherson, Kansas. He was born April 4, 1930, in rural Galva, the son of David D. and Dena (Nightingale) Schmidt. Chester was a lifelong farmer and stockman. He owned and operated Schmidt Bros. House Moving for over 20 years. In later years he worked for MCDS of McPherson as a supervisor. During his retirement, Chester’s favorite pastime was his daily visits to the coffee shop in Galva. Many Thursday afternoons one would see Chester driving to Salina to the cattle sale, another one of his favorite activities. He was a loving husband, kind dad and a patient grandfather. He loved to share his time with the grandchildren whether it be sitting on his lap in his favorite rocker or teaching them how to drive his pickup. The grandchildren also fondly remember his story telling that usually ended with his ornery laugh.Chester was a member of First Mennonite Church of McPherson where he was often heard humming along with the congregation, with “I’ll Fly Away” being his favorite hymn. He was united in marriage to Florene Dee Koehn on January 13, 1952 in Galva. She survives of the home. Chester and Florene recently celebrated 70 years of marriage. In their earlier years, they enjoyed visiting family and friends, near and afar. In their later years they had the joy of raising two grandsons, Nicholas and Ryan Schmidt. One would also find Chester and Florene out every Saturday night, enjoying dinner with close friends. Also surviving is his daughter, Jane (James) Boeckner of Hiawatha, KS; six grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and brothers, Kermit Schmidt, McPherson, Howard (Judy) Schmidt, Galva, and Norman Schmidt, Moundridge, KS. Chester was preceded in death by his parents; son, Stephen Schmidt; five sisters; and four brothers. Funeral Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at First Mennonite Church in McPherson. Burial will take place after at Lone Tree Cemetery, rural Galva. Visitation will be 3 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 15 with family greeting friends from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Moundridge Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to First Mennonite Church of McPherson in care of Moundridge Funeral Home, PO Box 410, Moundridge, Kansas 67107.

Chester L. Schmidt

April 4, 1930 - February 12, 2022