Steven Schmit

Steven Daniel Schmit, 51, of Milnor, North Dakota, passed away Sunday, December 17, 2023, at his residence from natural causes. His visitation is set from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at Vertin-Munson Funeral Home in Wahpeton, ND, with prayer service beginning at 7 p.m. Steven’s Mass of Christian Burial is set for 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 28, 2023, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Fairmount, ND. Msgr. Brian Donohue will be officiating. Burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery, Fairmount, ND. Vertin-Munson Funeral Home of Wahpeton, ND, is entrusted with all arrangements.

Steven Daniel Schmit was born on August 17, 1972, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, to Clarence “Dan” and Sharon (Hagge) Schmit. He grew up in Fairmount, North Dakota along with his younger sister, Sara, who he adored. Dan and Sharon would later divorce. Dan met Jeanette Long and welcomed a daughter, Samantha, who joined Dan’s two children and Jan’s four children. Together they became a beautiful, blended family.

Steve’s educational journey began at Fairmount High School, where he quickly endeared himself to his peers due to his amiable nature, earning himself the title of homecoming king - a testament to both his popularity and character. Steve was known for his unwavering support of the handicapped, always ensuring they were treated equally and with respect. Not only did he excel academically but also stood out as a tremendous athlete. During high school, Steve set records in both basketball and football, leaving a mark on Fairmount High’s history.

After graduation, Steve attended NDSCS for two years where he continued showcasing his athletic abilities through football and track. Furthermore, he actively participated in Fairmount’s American Legion baseball, serving as a role model for younger players with his dedicated work ethic and team spirit.

Steve loved farming with his dad, and had a passion for working the land which taught him hard work, and embedded in him a strong work ethic.  After college, this desire led him to begin his journey at the FUOSV Ag Center, where he found solace in the realm of farming.  Despite the long hours and demanding labor, he embraced the challenges that came with it. Later, Steve worked at Brown Tank, traveling across the United States and constructing storage tanks for ethanol plants. It was during this time that he became a certified welder. His travels allowed him to explore 38 states and create lasting memories.

Life took an unexpected turn when Steve experienced a terrible accident at work that left him with numerous broken bones. Miraculously, he never suffered head or back injuries during this incident. Yet, true to his resilient spirit, Steve made a remarkable recovery and eventually found employment at Bobcat in Gwinner, ND. For the past 18 years, he dedicated himself to this company and its endeavors.

 Steve was a child of faith, serving as an altar boy. Three years ago, Steve’s faith was renewed after being asked to be the Godfather of his sister’s newborn son. After that, he never missed a Sunday or a special event. His faith was unwavering.

Outside of work and sports, Steve had a love for the Dallas Cowboys football team. He embraced the great outdoors, always looking forward to deer hunting with his dad and friends. Known for his kindness and welcoming nature, Steve’s heart was most content when he witnessed the joy of his nieces and nephews. In the words of his 8-year-old niece, “He was quiet, but you always knew he was there. He gave the best hugs.”

Steve is survived by his parents, Clarence “Dan” and Jeanette “Jan” (Long) Schmit; siblings, Sara Schmit, Samantha (Lance) Nelson, Tonia (Daniel) Ford, Jason (Tracee) Kelsch, Jeremy (Elisa) Kelsch, Amanda (Brent) Miller; grandmother, Christina Long; 21 nieces and nephews; 1 great niece; numerous cousins, aunts and uncles, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his biological mother, Sharon Schmit; grandparents, Gerald and Mary Hagge, Clarence and Phyllis Schmit, and John E. Long; aunt and uncle, Diane and Raymond Hoffman; aunt, Janice Green; uncles, Richard Lysne and Dave Green; and 3 cousins, Brennan Ehler, Tristan Long and Jacob Long.

Steve Schmit’s warmth, compassion, and dedication to those around him will forever remain etched in our hearts. May we find peace in the memories that are shared together.