Wayne Schmidt
East Alton | Save
Wayne W. Schmidt, 78, of East Alton, IL, passed away on October 1, 2023, succumbing to injuries he received as the result of a tragic auto accident.
Wayne was born March 31, 1945, in Chicago, IL to Walter and Gloria (Schoenfeldt) Schmidt. He graduated from Amundsen High School, Chicago, and Northeastern University, Chicago.
His great passion for naval history led him to secure the U.S. Silversides SS236, which was a retired Navy Reserve ship moored at Navy Pier, Chicago. He and a team of volunteers worked to restore this historic submarine, creating an onboard overnight program for Boy Scouts. It is now moored as a national museum in Muskegon, Michigan.
Wayne is survived by his brother, David (Gayle) Schmidt; niece Kerri; nephew, Brian (Jody) and their children, Bennett and Liberty; and his sister-in-law, Kathy Schmidt. He is also survived by his former wife, Margaret; his two stepdaughters, Jessica (Jason) Young, Samantha (Joel) Larson, and their children; and stepson, Robert Anderson (Nereyda) and their son. He leaves behind an uncle, aunts, cousins and numerous caring friends.
He was preceded death by his parents; brother, Ray Schmidt; and former wife, Kathleen.
Wayne retired as a substitute teacher at Alton School District and as the civilian Chief, Plans & Programs at the U.S. Air Force base in Warner-Robbins, GA. His prior employment included Director of Strategic Air Command Museum, Omaha, NB; National Museum of Transportation, Manchester, MO; the USS Intrepid Museum, NYC, and as the Director of the Air Force Museum also located at Warner-Robbins GA.
Prior to his accident, Wayne was returning home from his birthplace in Chicago after attending the 60th reunion from Amundsen High School where he was able to reconnect with not only his former high school graduates but also students from Chappel Elementary. He had the opportunity to visit aunts, cousins, his 102-year-old uncle who was a World War II B24 bomber pilot, and many of his nieces and nephews.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services in East Peoria, Illinois is assisting the family. A Memorial Service is pending, with the location to be determined. Interment will be at All Saints Polish National Catholic Cemetery, 9201 W. Higgins Rd., Chicago, IL 60631.
