Kenneth Paul Schmidt, 76, of Salina, passed away Saturday, July 30, 2016. He was born April 8, 1940, in Hays to George and Catherine (Briet) Schmidt. The family lived in Pfeifer, Kan. When he was 12 years old his mother died and the family relocated to Salina.
He married Janet Fraser on Aug. 11, 1962 at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Salina. They were blessed with one daughter, Lee Ann.
Kenneth worked for the City of Salina for 49 years, the Salina Fire Department from 1960 to 1990 and after retirement from the fire department he worked at the Bi Center from 1991 to 2009.
He was very proficient in wood working, winning many ribbons at the fair. He gave many items to his relatives and friends.
He was an active member of the NRA.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Lexi Ann; six sisters; four brothers; one niece; and one nephew.
Kenneth is survived by his wife, Janet of the home; daughter, Lee Ann; son-in-law, Tom; two grandsons, Trevor (Ariele) and Cash; one sister, Patty; one brother, Leroy; mother-in-law, Dora; two sister-in-laws; two brother-in-laws; 33 nieces and nephews; several great-nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.
Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2, with a vigil and rosary beginning at 6 p.m., all at Ryan Mortuary, Salina.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Holy Cross Charities, Attn: Allen Roth, 1313 Even Drive, Hays, KS 67601.