Gary Stephen Schmidt

Gary Stephen Schmidt passed away peacefully at home on November 30, 2022. Gary was born on January 4, 1955. He was 67 years old. Gary was the son of Stephen Benjamin Schmidt Jr. and Doris Maybelle Crappse Schmidt, who both predeceased him.

Gary is survived by his wife of 22 years, Elaine Myers Schmidt, her sons Yates, wife Maureen and Josh, wife Tanya and their daughters Alyssa and Skylar.

Gary had four children with his first wife, Katherine Bagley. Andrew Schmidt, wife Laura and sons Nolan, Mason, and Rylan. Brian Schmidt, wife Morgan and son Charlie and daughter Chloe. Tyler Schmidt and girlfriend, Beth Kuhn. Kaitlyn Schmidt Curcio, husband John and daughter Charlotte.

Gary is also survived by his sister, Gale Schmidt Bradford, and children with former husband David Bradford. Meredith Bradford Paden, husband Jeremy and children Isaac, Levi, James, and Violet. Benjamin Bradford, wife Amelia and daughters Ramona and Evelyn.

Gary is also survived by his uncle and aunt, Harold Crawford and Elizabeth Crawford and cousins Melanie Crawford, Allison Crawford Walsh, husband Paul and daughters Megan and Claire.

Gary was a resident of Berkeley Heights for 63 years and an alumnus of the school district. He was a proud graduate of Governor Livingston High School,1973. Gary had many friends from high school that he kept in close touch with, as well as hosting many get togethers for the class of ‘73.

Gary graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. He later earned a Masters of Business Administration. He worked for Allen Bradley Engineering for many years before starting his own business of Delta Control Systems. After selling his business, he remained active in his field as a consultant and as a private contractor.

Gary’s passion was his family and he enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He loved to share his knowledge of engineering and building. He was always up-to-date with the latest computer technology. He owned several gaming systems and laughed as he played video games with his children and grandchildren. Gary loved playing guitar with his kids. He and his wife, Elaine, enjoyed traveling to Mexico and many western and southern states. They owned a large RV which was a vacation on wheels. Gary liked discussing current issues with family and friends and taking part in spirited debates. Gary maintained life long friendships with frequent phone calls to classmates and friends.

Gary fiercely battled cancer for 21 years. He was always optimistic about his recovery and never complained throughout the many treatments that he received. Gary will be deeply missed by his family and friends. We were blessed to have Gary as a loving part of our lives and we will continue to rejoice in the many wonderful memories.