Mary Elizabeth Schmidt

Born October 8, 1923 to two survivors of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, Leon and Elizabeth, Mary was the third of five children. She grew up in the heart of San Francisco during the Great Depression. Her father died due to an illness when Mary was only ten. It was a devastating loss but she found comfort and friendship while attending St. Paul’s School in San Francisco (the church used in the movie “Sister Act”). Mary nearly became a nun when WW II started, but instead, she began working for the Navy at Hunter’s Point as a cleric to support her family. Mary met Stanley Schmidt at a church dance where she was volunteering. He always says, “She was the prettiest girl in San Francisco.” They married in 1943. Mary worked for the Western Union while Stan was stationed overseas. She then became a dental nurse and eventually a homemaker. As her children grew, Mary took on part time jobs at the local school district and also enjoyed working in the Safeway Bakery for 15 years. Mary moved to Olympia in 1977 where attended Westwood Baptist Church for over 30 years. Mary’s faith in Jesus Christ, first as a Catholic and then as a Protestant, was the center of her life. This bright faith still shines through those who survive her: Stan Schmidt; daughters, Patty, Karen, and Mary Anne; son, Chris; as well as numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends. She passed away on August 20, 2014, in the morning, amidst family. Mary—You were beloved on the earth and, though you are now in Heaven, you’ll always be near. Please leave memories of Mary or condolences for her family in the Guestbook below.