Willie Billy Schmidt

Willie 'Billy' Schmidt Jr. passed away February 19, 2014. He was born December 1, 1931 in Orange Grove, Texas to Willie Simon and Minnie Kuecker Schmidt Sr. He was manager of the Orange Grove Co-Op, retiring after 28 years. He then worked part-time for Dobie Funeral Home until his passing. Billy was a member of the Orange Grove Volunteer Fire Dept. for over 60 years and served as Chief for 24 years. He served the city of Orange Grove as Mayor for 20 years. His hobbies included carpentry, gardening and helping others. Billy was preceded in death by a son; John 'Boogie' Schmidt in 2009. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jeanette of Orange Grove; 1 Son; Jimmy (Gloria) Schmidt of Orange Grove; 1 Sister: Dorothea 'Tootie' Funke of Orange Grove; 5 Grandchildren: Matthew (Erin) Schmidt,Tiffany (Israel) Pena, Brittany Schmidt, Jeffery Schmidt and Jace Schmidt. Also 12 Great Grandchildren. Visitation with the family present will be 6 to 8 P.M. Sunday February 23, 2014 at Dobie Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held 11 A.M. Monday February 24, 2014 at First Lutheran Church in Orange Grove with Reverend Wade Fuhrken officiating. Interment will follow in Sons of Hermann Cemetery. Pallbearers will be members of the Orange Grove Volunteer Fire Dept. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Orange Grove VFD P.O. Box 1228 Orange Grove, Texas 78372.