Craig “Smitty” Charles Schmidt

Craig Charles Schmidt "Smitty" 80, of Waterloo, died Friday, July 19, 2024, at his home surrounded by loved ones. He was born June 16, 1944, son of Alvin and Margaret (Smith) Schmidt. He attended Orange Elementary and High School and graduated from Missouri Military Academy. He then served in the United States Marine Corp. After his service he attended the International Fabric Care Institute. He married Linda LeFebvre in 1966, they later divorced.

Craig was the second-generation owner and operator of Varsity Cleaners and Milroy's Formal Wear until retiring in 2004. He was also an Auxiliary Waterloo Police Officer and drove the volunteer ambulance.

Smitty devoted tremendous time and talent to many organizations and clubs in the community. He was a Boy Scout Troop Master for fifteen years, producing thirteen Eagle Scouts during that time. He was active in American Kyokushin Karate for fourteen years, earning a black belt and instructing for four years. Smitty volunteered his time for twenty-six years to the National Cattle Congress as producer of entertainment, during which time he enticed many stars to come to the Cedar Valley. As President of the Jaycees, he was the winner of the Speak Up speech contest. He was a member of the Cedar Valley Sports Car Club of America for eight years driving a Jensen-Healey. He was active in Coin Clubs, Cedar Valley Bass Masters tournament fishing, and was past President of the Iowa Fabric Care Association.

Smitty liked to travel and was an avid camper. He loved many pets and fish throughout his life. Other hobbies included reading, especially James Patterson books, any kind of dancing from line dancing to disco, singing and music – his favorite being Buddy Holly, automobiles, and his Harley. He was a big sports fan. His favorite teams were the Iowa Hawkeyes, Green Bay Packers, and St. Louis Cardinals.

He is survived by his partner, Tammy Meyers of Waterloo, his children, Richard (Melanie) Schmidt of Cedar Falls, Dennis (Dawn) Schmidt of Waterloo, Angelina (Jim) Garthoff of Waterloo; Tammy's sons, Drew (Amy) Meyers of West Des Moines, and Miles (Brianna) Meyers of Waterloo, 15 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. He was preceded by his parents.

A celebration of Smitty's life will take place Friday, July 26, 2024 from 4-7:00 PM at Locke at Tower Park, 4140 Kimball Ave. Memorials may be directed to Unity Point Hospice Waterloo, or Cedar Bend Humane Society