Delbert Dean Schmidt, 89, passed away Saturday, July 24, 2021, at Colorado Plains Medical Center in Fort Morgan.  He was born September 29, 1931, in Riverton, NE to Delbert Theodore & Doris (Gates) Schmidt.

Delbert graduated high school in Tryon, NE.  On May Day in the 8 ^th grade he had a first date with Wilda McNutt.  Wilda and Delbert married on June 15, 1952, in North Platte, NE.  Two years later, Delbert was drafted into the US Army and served in Japan during the Korean conflict.  He was honorably discharged on May 24, 1956 and used the GI Bill to obtain a Master's degree in Education from the University of Denver. He worked in education as a teacher, school principal, and superintendent. In 1966 the Schmidt family moved to Morgan County where Delbert worked as an administrator for the RE-3 school district. A few years later, Delbert embarked on a new career as a building contractor.  He built and remodeled many homes in and around Fort Morgan.  He transitioned into construction welding, which he thoroughly enjoyed and did until he retired.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, serving in various capacities over the years.  His favorite activities were working and spending time with his family. He was known to be kind, gentle, and caring. His biggest joy was supporting his wife and family in their many endeavors and he was always ready to lend a hand or share a joke.  Delbert and Wilda were married for 69 years.

Survivors include his wife, Wilda; daughter Connie (Greg) Mese; son-in-law Andrew Klinkerman; 3 grandchildren, Aaron (Kandii) Mese, Bethany (Steve) Arnold and Dean Klinkerman; and 2 great-grandchildren, Orin Mese and Levi Arnold.  He was preceded in death by his daughter Lucinda Klinkerman; son & daughter-in-law Darwin & Deborah Schmidt; 2 brothers, Dale & Robert; 2 grandsons Joshua Mese & Alex Schmidt; and his parents.

At Delbert's request, no formal service will be held. Family prefers memorial gifts be given to the American Cancer Society c/o the Heer Mortuary.