Published: November 05, 2009 09:17 pm      

William Ray Schmidt Sr.

William Ray Schmidt Sr., 81, of Palestine, died Oct. 16, 2009, as a result of an automobile accident. Mr. Schmidt was born July 6, 1928 in Indianapolis, Ind. to Katie Park and Otto Frank Schmidt. Growing up on the south side of Indianapolis, he completed Emmerich Manuel Training High School. Upon graduation he enlisted in and served four years in the U.S. Navy during and after World War II. After discharge from the Navy, he used his G.I. Bill to enroll in the University of Houston, graduating in 1953. He remained a loyal Cougar for his lifetime and served for several years on the Board of Industrial Advisors of the UH College of Technology.

Mr. Schmidt enjoyed a long career in the electrical industry in Houston, working first for Powell Industries, then ITE Imperial Circuit Breakers Company and ending his career with Electrical Controller Products. Upon his retirement in 1991 he indulged a longtime interest in aviation as a member of the Texas Raiders wing of the Confederate Air Force, and was active in the Wings Over Houston Air Show. He enjoyed collecting and restoring clocks and participating in clock shows as a member of the National Association of Watch & Clocks Collectors.

A major interest in his life was his “ranch” near Palestine. In 2005 as failing health took its toll he and his wife left their beloved longtime home of Houston and retired there. Mr. Schmidt was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Palestine.

Mr. Schmidt is survived by his wife, Katherine Mayo Schmidt of Palestine; son, William R. Schmidt Jr. and wife Terri Caspary Schmidt of Albuquerque, NM.; sister, Jane Schmidt Vawter of Clancy, Mont.; niece Jan Vawter Cronin of Helena, Mont.; and two great-nieces, Elizabeth and Casey Cronin.

Mr. Schmidt was cremated and a memorial service is planned for a later date.

To view online, leave condolences or sign guestbook go to www.baileyandfosterfuneralhome.com