Charles M. Schmitt

Charles Robert Schmitt

July 17, 1926 – November 12, 2025

Charles Robert Schmitt, 99, of Kinsley, Kansas, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, at Southwind at Spearville, surrounded in spirit by the love of his family and the faith that guided him throughout his life. 

Charles was born on July 17, 1926, to Alfons and Hildegard (Werner) Schmitt. He grew up on the family farm with his six siblings—Harold, Alfred “Fritz”, LaVern, Paul, Phyllis, and Jane. Of them, only his sister Phyllis remains to cherish his memory.

He attended St. Peter and Paul Grade School and graduated from Kinsley High School in 1944.

After graduation, Charles served in the Navy as an anti-aircraft gunnery instructor from 1944 to 1946, when he was honorably discharged. After his military service, he returned home to Kinsley, where he spent his life farming and ranching with dedication and pride. 

He married the love of his life, Clara Herrmann, on October 18, 1949. He would often talk about how blessed he felt they had each other. In their younger years they enjoyed bowling, card club, square dancing, leading the grand march at wedding dances and building a family business. Later in life they spent much of their time going to Antique Shows and getting together with their friends at the Drug Store. They enjoyed taking day long tours of the farm especially if Jerry Felder was driving! Together, they built a lifetime rooted in love, faith, and family. Their nearly 75-year marriage was filled with devotion, laughter, and hard work—a true partnership and a beautiful example to all who knew them. Clara preceded him in death in September 2023, and Charles looked forward to being reunited with her.

When he wasn’t in the fields, Charles enjoyed flying his plane and restoring old Model-T Fords and Antique Tractors. His shop was a special source of pride—a place where he spent countless hours tinkering, fixing, and creating. Friends often stopped by to lend a hand on a project or simply to visit. He loved sharing stories, trading ideas, and offering advice, and there was always something interesting underway in that shop. Whether it was machinery, a Model-T part, or a homemade gadget, Charles had a knack for bringing things back to life and doing it with a twinkle in his eye and polka music in the background.

Faith and community were central to Charles’s life. A lifelong member of St. Peter and Paul and St. Nicholas Catholic Churches, he served in many capacities over the years. He was active in numerous organizations, serving at various times as a President, Director, Board Member, or Officer. His involvement included the Flying Farmers, Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, Tired Iron Club, Sunflower State Crankers, the local Co-op, and many other local and national groups. His kindness, humility, and steady willingness to help others left a lasting impact on his community.

Above all, Charles was a family man. He and Clara were blessed with two children, Leon and Mary Ann. The loss of Leon in 1995 was a heartbreak that forever changed their lives, yet Charles drew strength from his faith and from the love that surrounded him. He carried Leon’s memory with him every day, honoring him by living with joy, working hard, and keeping that spark of mischief his son was known for.

His daughter Mary Ann held a special place in her father’s heart. He and his daughter shared a bond built on unconditional love. He was a guiding light, constant source of support and always offered words of encouragement no matter the situation. He always stressed kindness, thoughtfulness and generosity and was an amazing role model. Charles was a real life hero to Mary Ann who was so proud of her Dad. Though she lived in Texas, she made frequent trips home, and her visits were a source of comfort and happiness. Whether looking at pictures, reminiscing about the past, or simply enjoying each other’s company, their time together was precious to him. Her devotion and presence were blessings he never took for granted.

Charles was also blessed with a close and loving relationship with his daughter-in-law, Jackie (Schmitt) McElwain, who remained an important and cherished part of the family after Leon’s passing. Jackie later married Randy McElwain, and together they continued to play a central role in the life of the Schmitt family. Randy and Jackie were faithful sources of support, laughter, and connection—always present for gatherings, celebrations, and everyday moments. Their love for Charles and their commitment to keeping family ties strong meant the world to him. Jackie, the mother of all of Charles’s grandchildren, held a special place in his heart, and her ongoing devotion brought him great comfort and joy. 

One of Charles’s greatest joys was being a grandfather. His granddaughters—Krystle Sandman, Chelsea Schmitt, Sierra Schmitt, and Madison McElwain—brought him endless pride. They spent many hours together at the farm or in his shop, where he never missed an opportunity to “put them to work.” Whether they were handing him tools, helping with chores, or simply keeping him company, he delighted in their presence. Through those shared moments, he passed along the values that shaped his own life—hard work, resourcefulness, faith, and the importance of family. Each granddaughter knew how deeply she was loved, and the lessons he taught will stay with them forever. 

Charles lived a long and full life grounded in faith, love, friendships, and gratitude. In his later years, he was lovingly cared for by the compassionate staff at Country Living in Larned, Edwards County Medical Center, and Southwind at Spearville. His family is deeply thankful for the care and kindness he received and the visits from family and friends that always brightened his days. 

He will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his easy smile, and the quiet strength that came from a lifetime of devotion to faith, family, and hard work. 

Knights of Columbus Rosary will be at 6:30 pm, Friday, Nov. 21, and Funeral Mass at 10:30 am, Saturday, Nov. 22, both at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Kinsley. 

His family gives thanks for the many friendships, prayers, and kindnesses shared over the years and takes comfort knowing Charles is now at peace—reunited with Clara and Leon—and in the loving hands of his Savior.

“Good Night, Sleep Tight, and Don’t Let the Bedbugs Bite.

”Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter and Paul Cemetery Association or St. Nicholas Catholic Church and sent in care of McKillip Funeral Home, 623 Marsh Ave., Kinsley, KS 67547.

Those wishing to send flowers are encouraged to support Kinsley’s local florist, Colony Floral & Greenhouse, at 620-659-3346.