Patricia Ann Schmida

Patricia Ann Schmida, 85 (but she would tell you she was 50), of Kalona, died at her home on Friday, May 24, 2024, with family at her side.

Pat was born March 17, 1939, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the daughter of Lawrence and Lucille (Gregory) White. She graduated from Notre Dame Academy in 1956 and continued her education at the McKenna Presentation School of Nursing, graduating in 1959. It was love at first sight when she met a handsome young sailor one evening at the VFW. Pat always said, "I just knew he was the one." On January 29, 1959, Pat was united in marriage to Milton Schmida in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Married for 64 years, Pat and Milt were dedicated to one another and built a life based on love, respect, laughter, and faith. It was a love for the ages. Over the years, they lived in several communities, including Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota, Mason City, Ottumwa, and Wellman. No matter where life took them, Pat created a warm, welcoming home to which family and friends would flock. 

A nurse for 50 years, Pat was voted as 'Bedside Nurse of the Year' by her peers. Her patients, their families, and fellow healthcare providers will remember her as a compassionate, conscientious caregiver who went above and beyond. This was never more evident than when Pat so lovingly cared for Milton during his final months of life. Pat was a devout member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wellman, a member of the Altar and Rosary, and served on the Parish Council. Additionally, Pat was very active in Iowa City Hospice. Pat loved reading, watching British television, and didn't mind being called "Queen Mum" when the occasion arose. Pat was a fantastic cook, and Milton's eyes lit up when she made her famous fried chicken for him. Pat cherished spending laughter-filled hours with friends after mass for coffee at DJ's and looked forward to hosting her annual Christmas party. Pat's grandchildren and great-grandchildren will always treasure the magical moments she created for them including tea parties, circus walks, dressing up as Mary Poppins, and so much more. Her home was her haven where she was most creative, commonly collecting quilts, linens, birds, pottery, and art. Pat's free spirit and love for adventure were admired by all. Though her family and friends are saddened by her passing, they are comforted knowing she is reunited with Milton.

Pat is survived by her six children: Gregory Schmida of Washington, Jane (Kip) Augspurger of West Des Moines, Milton (Jackie) Schmida of La Crosse, WI, Molly (Steve) Lugar of Kalona, Patrick (Michel) Schmida of Altoona, Heather (Scott) Gudenkauf of Cedar Rapids; 15 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; five siblings, Michael (Elaine) White of Brookings, SD, Mary Joann (Russell) Poppinga of Sioux Falls, SD, Susan Campbell of Sioux Falls, SD, Anthony White of Brookings, SD, and Kathy Assay of Sioux Falls, SD. 

Pat was preceded in death by her beloved husband Milt in 2023, her daughter-in-law Kimbra Valenti, her parents, and three sisters Connie White, Elizabeth Serrioz, and Jeannie Hellerud. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wellman, with Rev. Bill Roush as Celebrant. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 9:30 am until 10:45 am. Burial will be in the Wellman Cemetery. The family is exceedingly grateful for the guidance and care that Hospice of Washington County provided Pat in her final weeks. A memorial fund has been established for Hospice of Washington County and St. Joseph's Church in Wellman. The Yoder-Powell Funeral Home is caring for Pat and her family.