Raymond Joseph Schmidt

Raymond J. Schmidt, 91, lifelong resident of South Bend, passed away at 8:45 am Tuesday, June 24, 2014 in his home. He was born February 16, 1923 in South Bend to the late Ignatius and Emma (Griesehopper) Schmidt. On July 3, 1970, he married Betty L. "Bunny" Baloy, who survives.

In addition to his loving wife, Bunny of South Bend, Ray is survived by daughters, Debbie (Bob) Van Arsdale of North Liberty and Becky Wetzel of South Bend; stepson, Mike Baloy of South Bend; three grandchildren; and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by four sisters and one brother.

Ray graduated from South Bend Central High School. He was a veteran of World War II, serving as a radio operator with the 1098th Signal Company attached to the 5th Air Force in the Pacific Theatre of Operation. He was awarded three bronze stars, a good conduct medal and an honorable discharge for his service.

Ray was a manager of Schmidt's Standard Service Station in South Bend. He then became a bus driver for South Bend Community School Corporation, from which he retired in 1983 after 21 years. He was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church and the Mishawaka VFW #360.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice for the excellent care that was given to Ray during his illness.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 am Saturday, June 28, 2014 in Christ the King Catholic Church, 52473 Indiana 933, South Bend. Military graveside honors and burial will follow in St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 - 7:00 pm Friday, June 27, 2014 in the Palmer Funeral Home - Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Road, South Bend.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Ray may be donated to River Bend Cancer Services, 919 E. Jefferson Blvd, South Bend, IN 46617. Online condolences may be left for the Schmidt family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

08/13/2022 EJS