Charles Dennis Schmidt

Charles Schmidt, age, 81, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away Thursday, February 5, 2026 at Ava’s House in Sioux Falls, SD.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at St. Therese Catholic Church in Sioux Falls with Fr. Jerry Ranek celebrating. Burial will follow a time of lunch and fellowship, at Berg Cemetery near Renner, SD.

Visitation will be Monday, February 9, 2026 from 5 – 7 PM at the Minnehaha Funeral Home in Dell Rapids, SD. There will be a Rosary said for Charles at 6:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested.

Charles Schmidt was born on September 8, 1944, in Dell Rapids, SD, to John and Ann (Schwebach) Schmidt. He received his education at St. Mary Catholic School in Dell Rapids. Following his education, he joined the Army and served as an X-ray technician for approximately two years. After completing his service, he returned home to pursue farming. He discovered his vocation to marriage after meeting his future wife, Karen Erickson, at the Arkota Ballroom in Sioux Falls. Together, they raised four children: Carla, Brian, Josh, and Jill. He found great fulfillment in his life with his wife and children, and later with his eight grandchildren and great grandson.

Chuck had a deep passion for sports, especially baseball, and was a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. He was an avid bowler and a prominent coach in both softball and basketball. Beyond the games themselves, he took great pride in teaching his children important life lessons through hard work. He shared a special bond with his youngest grandchild, Maria, whom he often called the love of his life, telling her he didn't truly know what love was until he met her.

Chuck retired after more than 30 years at Pfeifer Implement. In his retirement, he enjoyed gardening and, later in life, playing cards. He played twice a week, forming many great friendships through the years.

Chuck was a truly humble man with a deep and abiding faith. While his bark could be more intimidating than his bite, those who knew him well truly understood the immense size of his heart.

Charles is survived by his wife, Karen Schmidt; daughter, Carla Michel; sons, Brian Schmidt and Josh (LuzElena) Schmidt; daughter, Jill (Nate) Ginsbach; grandchildren, Jaren Schmidt and his son Anakin, Jamieson Schmidt, Jace Schmidt, Jevan Schmidt, Jacoben Schmidt, Maria Schmidt, Fallon Ginsbach and Zayda Ginsbach; brother, Leonard Schmidt; sister, Grace Schmidt; brother, Raymond Schmidt; sister-in-law, Barb Schmidt; niece, nephews and other extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ann Schmidt; and brother, Phillip Schmidt.