David Michael Schmidt

Mike was born in Littleton, CO in February 1959 to Dave and Carol Schmidt. He was raised primarily in Titusville, FL and Cary, NC. Mike graduated with a BA in Chemistry from NC State University in 1981. He continued to work in the chemical field throughout his professional career, having just celebrated his 33rd work anniversary at Sun Chemical. He also furthered his academic accomplishments with an MBA from UNC Charlotte in 1999. He met his wife, Donna, when she worked at a bookshop in Eastland Mall, while purchasing a book on philosophy. Having met in 1982 and married in 1984, they enjoyed over 36 years of marriage. An eternal and unwavering partnership, their marriage is a testament to patience, devotion and above all else - love. They had their daughter, Emily, on the date of their 7th anniversary. Mike was an intelligent, diligent individual who valued hard work. He went through life to the beat of his own drum. Keenly aware and incisively sharp, Mike viewed the world through a uniquely intellectual lens. Often quietly pensive, though at times, full of life, Mike had an undeniable presence. Unconventional, humorous, and sometimes mischievous, the absence of his singular personality will be profoundly felt by his loved ones. Mike was a sensitive soul who will be deeply missed by those honored to have known him. He was most happy tinkering with electronics, jamming on his guitars, playing video games, watching science fiction, or reading a book. A man of taste, Mike valued art, design, and especially music of all forms. An introvert, he was happiest in the quiet comfort of his home, in the company of his wife, daughter, and beloved cats. He loved deeply and truly just wanted everyone to be safe and happy. An early riser, his family will forever associate the pervasive aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the soft hum of classical music each morning, with him. He is preceded in death by his father, David Eric Schmidt, and his brother Stephen ‘Mark’ Schmidt, and many cats. He is survived by his wife Donna V. Schmidt; his daughter Emily Elizabeth ‘Emmy Boo’ Schmidt; his mother, Carol I. Schmidt; and his bengals, Theo and Scarlett. The family will receive friends at 12:00 p.m. Noon with a service to be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 26, 2021, at Hankins and Whittington Funeral Service, 1111 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203.