Obituary for Matthew Schmitt

Matthew James Schmitt, age 51, of Spring Lake Park, died Saturday, October 16. He was born October 24th, 1969 in Quang Ngai, Vietnam. He arrived in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota on March 24, 1974 to become the son of Harley and Beverly Schmitt and brother to Christa, Beth, and Nathan. He graduated from Anoka High School and attended Hennepin Technical College. On August 9, 2014, Matthew married Linda Pham. Over the years he worked various skilled labor jobs. Most recently he did medical device manufacturing at RMS Company in Coon Rapids. Some of his interests included landscaping, woodworking, and golfing. He enjoyed golfing with coworkers on Saturdays.

At the center of Matthew’s life was his deep commitment to Jesus. His strong Christian faith poured out of him in his relationships, and in his ministry and service to others. Matthew loved deeply. He lovingly cared for his wife. Her two children and grandchildren were like his own. They called him “Papa.” He continued to be a good friend to Charmiqua Pham, mother of Christopher Jr., Christian, and Cailee. Weekly, he would stop at his parent’s home to help out with whatever needed to be done, always with a smile on his face, and lots of laughter. He always had time for others, including his siblings, which included a warm hug and a huge smile. Matthew had a special love for children. Being a kid at heart, he enjoyed spending time with them.

In every church he was a part of, he was there to serve. He did everything from ushering, building projects, fund-raising, praying with people, worshipping with flags, etc.; always with a joyful heart. We mourn the loss of our beloved Matthew, but we rejoice knowing that he is in heaven, worshipping Jesus with the angels, and probably waving a big flag.

He is survived by his parents, Harley and Beverly Schmitt; his wife Linda; her children, Christopher (significant other Joy) Pham and Elizabeth (SisQo) Andrews; grandchildren, Christopher Pham Jr., Christian Pham, Cailee Pham, Ryu Andrews, Kimiqo Andrews; sisters, Christa (Bruce) Rimmereid, Beth (Kevin) Schmitt; brother, Nathan (Caryn) Schmitt; 6 nieces and nephews. Visitation 3-7pm Wednesday, October 27 at Evans-Nordby Funeral Home, 6000 Brooklyn Blvd., Brooklyn Center and 1 hour prior to 11am funeral service Thursday, October 28 at The Church of St. Gerard Majella, 9600 Regent Avenue North, Brooklyn Park. In lieu of flowers send donations to the family for distribution to charities.