Gerald Otto Schmidt

Gerald Otto Schmidt 7/4/1949 – 2/17/2023 Gerald (Jerry) Otto Schmidt was born July 4, 1949 in Bennington, NE to Arnold and Irene (Voss) Schmidt. He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bennington, Nebraska. Jerry grew up on a dairy farm west of Bennington where he and his brothers and sister made many memories. Together they worked on the farm, throwing hay bales, milking cows and tending to the crops in the fields. It wasn’t always work, there was some fun to be had too. We enjoyed hearing stories of their shenanigans – even setting the creek on fire. Jerry married Betty Phillippe on June 6, 1970 and to this union three children were born: Shannon, Rusty, and Jeni. Jerry and Betty raised their children on a small farm in Bennington where they managed a dairy farm for almost 20 years. He had a love for animals except for Alice the meanest, best producing cow he had. Jerry tended to a garden rich in vegetables and a quiet spot for a cold beer after a hard day. When not tending to the farm, Jerry could be found always at every one of his kid’s activities, whether in a gym or ball field. Jerry was a simple man, content to be at home surrounded by his family. He loved a good steak and a tall Kessler and 7. More than anything he loved his wife, Betty. She was his true love. His kids were his pride and joy only being surpassed by his grandchildren. There was seldom a time or occasion when he wouldn’t strike up a conversation with a stranger or old friend. He would lend anyone his last $20.00 and be the first to show up when someone was in need. He made a mean fried chicken that would bring his family to his table at a moment’s notice. His big size was only outmatched by his bigger heart. Jerry was a treasured husband, dad, papa, brother and uncle. Those closest to him had the privilege to have been loved by him. Deeply. He was a good and faithful servant. Jerry passed away on Friday, February 17, 2023 in Oakland Nebraska. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Irene Schmidt, and sister, Marlene Smith. Jerry is survived by wife, Betty Schmidt; daughters: Shannon (Bary) Schultz, and Jenifer (Kirk) Merryweather; son Rusty Schmidt; grandchildren: Katie and Gus Schultz, Brody and Kali Schmidt, and Klay and Molly Merryweather; brothers: Arlan "Sonny" (Nancy) Schmidt and Roger (Kelly) Schmidt; brother-in-law, Mike Smith; and many nieces and nephews. Memorials are suggested to the German Cemetery, Bennington, Nebraska, or Oakland Heights in Oakland, NE.

Gerald Otto Schmidt

July 4, 1949 - February 17, 2023