Michelle Lynn Schmidt, 57, Minot, went to her heavenly home on Saturday, September 21, 2024.
Well, here we are. You’re probably thinking… “Where’s Michelle off to now?” Answer to that is that I’m on the trip of a lifetime. I’m on my way to Heaven and my body is free of all this stupid cancer! I’ve heard it’s beautiful where I’m going… streets are paved in gold and there are so many of my loved ones waiting there for me! I know I’ll be happy there, but I’ll miss you all like crazy… but don’t worry, I’ll always be watching over you! Look for a bluebird or a cardinal and know I’m there.
In case you are wondering about my life, let me start at the beginning. I was born in Virginia on September 16th, 1967, to my amazing parents, Robert and Linda Long. I had an equally awesome big brother named Kevin waiting at home for me. Being a Navy brat, we lived all over from Virginia to Alaska and back to Virginia, then to California and finally settling in North Dakota which became “home”.
I graduated from New Town High School in 1985 and from Minot State University in 1989. School was great, but I’ll be the first to admit, the parties far exceeded the classrooms!
In September of 1989 I married Randy Schmidt. Although our marriage didn’t last, our friendship did. I am one of the lucky ones who still gets to call her ex, her friend.
The best thing that ever happened in my life are my two children, Tommy and Kelli. Being their mother was the greatest honor, the greatest blessing, the greatest joy of my life. I truly hit the jackpot with them!! Whenever you see them, please give them a hug for me, ok?
On May 1st, 2024, I was given the honor of being promoted to “Gramma.” Not to brag, but I’m pretty sure he’s the cutest little guy ever. Rhodes David Schmidt, your gramma loves you so very much and I wish I could be here to watch you grow up, but I’ll forever be an angel watching over you. Always be a good boy, buddy.
My family is small, but mighty! I have two aunts, Elaine and Bonnie that have always been there for me, my cousins, and my awesome nieces and nephew. My darling Marlie girl… make sure she never forgets me.
I’ve been blessed with the most beautiful, strong, loyal, and amazing group of friends. You all know who you are! I couldn’t have made it through life without you all! I expect when you are together that you will always make sure to have a drink for me and tell some great stories of our friendship.
My love of travel began with my 18-year career at Delta Vacations. That job enabled me to see the world and make so many great memories. I loved the saying – “Buy the shoes, eat the cake, and take the trip!” I would do all those and don’t regret it at all!
When I read obituaries, I always would wonder how people died. Well in case you are wondering the same thing… I had breast cancer. I was originally diagnosed in 2013 and it reared its ugly head again in 2021. I gave it all I got, but every battle eventually comes to an end. I hope when you think of this part of my life, you think of grace, and determination, and how hard I fought.
Those that are tasked with the job of carrying on my memory are my kids, Tommy and Brittney Schmidt and their son Rhodes, Kelli and her boyfriend Nick Brown, my grandpups Bogie and Burrito, my mom Linda Long, my brother Kevin Long, stepsister and brother Kelly and Dale Kemery, Randy and Mandy Schmidt, niece (but more like a daughter) Erika and TJ Moulton, Marlie and Timmy, Lexi and Tosh, Austin and Stevie Long, Maverick and Myles, Meg and family, Kate and family, aunts Elaine Johnson and Bonnie Sjol, my cousins, Kristin, Ryan, Steph, Brent, Aubrey, Jayden, and Kendra, and my dear friends. I love you all so very much!
Those waiting for me in heaven are my dad, Robert Long and my stepfather Ralph Sallade, my grandparents Beatrice Sales and Leonard Long, Kennie and Bernice Auverson, my aunt and uncle Bernita and Kenny Schwartz, my cousin Kendall Schwartz, Melvin and Gloria Schmidt, many dear friends, and my sweet Lucky dog.
Please take care of each other. Take pictures of everything, pick up the phone and call each other, smile often, laugh loud and find a new place to travel each year! Life is a journey meant to be lived, so live well my friends!
Love,
Michelle
Celebration of Life Service to Remember Michelle: Friday, September 27, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at The Barn at 52 Pines, located at 3220 Grayson Drive Burlington, ND 58722. Join our family for a service, sharing memories and refreshments.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Michelle L. Schmidt, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.
