Ira Leo Schmidt Sr., a man of great character and resilience, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on November 5, 1930, Ira lived through nearly a century of history, contributing his own unique chapters to the lives of everyone he met.

A native of Dorchester, Wisconsin, Ira was known for his sharp wit and quiet strength. He moved from Wisconsin to Washington State in the early 1950s, where he met his future wife, Rita Rae Hanratty and married her in 1954. They lived in Pasco, Washington for two years, adding two sons (Ira Jr and Kenneth) to the family, before moving to Sacramento, California. While in Sacramento, they added the other three boys (Daniel, David, and Michael) to the family. In December of 1969 they returned to Pasco where they lived out their lives.

Ira spent his professional life in many different occupations including operating a combine, working for the railroad, owning a carpet laying business, working at Columbia Basin College, and driving pilot car for oversized loads. He was always respected for his work ethic. A proud veteran, Ira served in the army during the Korean War, carrying those values of service throughout his life. He also served on the Pasco City Council for eight years.

Outside of work, Ira was happiest when tending to his garden and fixing things in his home. He was a man who appreciated the simple joys: a good meal, a long story, and the company of those he loved.

Ira's greatest legacy is his family. He is survived by his 4 sons, Ira Jr. and Pattie Schmidt, Kenneth and Lori Schmidt, Daniel and Vickie Schmidt, and David Schmidt; his 6 grandchildren, Kenneth Schmidt Jr., Katherine Travis, Heather Schmidt, Ira Schmidt III, Levi Schmidt and Kendra Bork; and his brother, Lee and Dolores Schmidt and 10 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Hattie Schmidt, and siblings, Earl Schmidt, Bernice Balciar, Grace Beyer, Roy Schmidt, Maebell Thieme, Eleanor Musich, his wife Rita Schmidt, and his son Michael Schmidt.