Montezuma - Robert Lee Schmidt, 78, died October 2, 2012 at Bethel Home in Montezuma. He was born on September 22, 1934 at Montezuma, the son of Walter and Della (Unruh) Schmidt.

Robert was born with cerebral palsy and he spent most of his life in a wheelchair. He was able to attend the South Lone Star School until the 5th grade.

Robert was baptized into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite by Minister David Koehn on June 12, 1947. Because of his health condition, it was thought best to baptize him at his home where a small group had gathered. He remained faithful to his vows until the end.

In his younger years, Robert enjoyed fishing in the farm pond near his home. Robert had a normal mind in a handicapped body and had many dreams that he was unable to fulfill.

In spite of his handicap, Robert had a sense of humor and we all enjoyed his smile. He looked forward to family gatherings and enjoyed listening to the conversations. After moving to town, a highlight of his life was helping his dad hoe and water the garden. This was all done from his wheelchair. A common sight was seeing him ride his three wheel bicycle around town before moving to Bethel Home in 1991.

His great patience and endurance was an inspiration to all who knew him. He had a great admiration for his brother Dale who came to Bethel Home nearly every morning to help care for him the past 19 years.

Those left to cherish many memories are a brother Dale Schmidt and wife Nadine of Montezuma; a sister Regean Schmidt and husband Milton of DeRidder, Louisiana; a brother-in-law, Jonas Schmidt of DeRidder, Louisiana; and a host of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Richard; three sisters, Marjorie Schmidt, Margaret Unruh-Hiebert, and Opal Dirks.

The family is grateful to the Bethel Home staff for the wonderful and loving care he received.

Funeral service will be held at the North Montezuma Mennonite Church on Friday, October 5, 2012 at 10:30 AM with Ministers Donald Koehn, Charles Schmidt, and Harold H. Koehn presiding. Burial will follow at Montezuma Mennonite Church Cemetery. Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Chapel of Montezuma on Thursday, October 4, 2012 from noon to 4:00 PM and at Bethel Home in Montezuma from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Memorials are suggested to Bethel Home in care of the funeral home. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.