Mark Stanley Schmidt, II

“Come to me, all ye who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:18 Mark S. Schmidt II has gone to his Father in Heaven this last Thursday, October 7th. After struggling for several years with dementia, he fell and broke his hip. God took him home shortly thereafter. He is survived by his loving wife, Betty J. Schmidt and an extensive family. His children include Carrie Diedrich, Jeff Fox, Brenda Fox, Mark Schmidt III, Tim Fox, and Kay Willey. His grandchildren include Brian Diedrich, Kristi Abeyta, Mollie Brown, Chris Fox, Jacob Fox, Jason Fox, Ariel Schmidt, Isaac Fox, Mike Willey, Tom Willey, Becky Willey, Jon Fox, Heather Fox, Ashley Fox and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren from their extended family. Mark and Betty will have been married for 33 years this upcoming October 22, 2021. Inseparable from one another, they were each other’s most beloved. Born in Illinois, Mark lived in Naperville the first half of his life and loved those Chicago Cubs! The second half of his life was spent in Colorado. He earned a degree in Mathematics and worked in various careers, being most proud of his Production and Inventory Management position with Martin Marietta. After retiring, he volunteered his time with the Athletic Department at the University of Southern Colorado in Pueblo and the Philip S. Miller library in Castlerock, teaching GED courses to help people move up in the work force and improve their lives. He was a giver who shared God’s blessings on him with all. Mark was many things in life, but most of all, he was a family man. He especially loved being surrounded by his grandchildren so that he could play and be as silly as they. Chasing them around the house, taking them to the State Fair or the zoo, watching them at their ball games, Grandpa enjoyed being a part of their lives and was always proud of their successes. Animals were important to Mark as well. He has many furry friends awaiting him – Chief, his wolf/shepherd and two poodles, Scamper and Inky, as well as his childhood best friend. Generations of squirrels and birds will be flocking to him as well in greeting. His motto would be “Don’t TRY, just do it.” His positive attitude was contagious and inspired the best in those who surrounded him. The funeral will be held at Cedar Hill Cemetery, 880 E. Wolfensberger, Castle Rock. Please contact the family for the date and time.