James E. Schmidt, 88, of Mendota, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Stonecroft Village in Mendota. He was born August 13, 1937, in LaMoille, the son of Edward and Josephine (Maher) Schmidt. He married Janet Bauer on October 26, 1957.

For many years, Jim lived on a farm in LaMoille and farmed all of his life. He also worked as plant superintendent at Black Bros. for 38 years, retiring on March 26, 1999. Jim's love was farming. He also enjoyed outdoor games with family and fishing. He took numerous fishing trips around the country. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife, Janet. Their travels took them to places such as Alaska, Hawaii, and, one of their favorite places to visit, Branson, MO. Jim coached his son's baseball team for many years and even won a championship. He loved spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jim was a member of the Mendota Elks Lodge #1212 and Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Jim is survived by three daughters, Donna (James) Clinton, Debbie (Frank) Gatza, and Betty (Rick) Cook; one son, Dennis (Kim) Schmidt; nine grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren with one on the way; a brother, Larry (Sandy) Schmidt; a sister, Norma Jean Witczak; sisters-in-law, JoAnne (Tom) Maloy and Linda Browder; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Janet; a daughter, Carol; sister, Anna Marie (Ronnie) Jegglie; brothers-in-law, Tony Witczak and Edgar Browder; and a sister-in-law, Eleanor (Ralph) Geuther.

Visitation will be from 4-7 P.M. Monday, March 30, 2026, at Horner-Merritt Funeral Home, 800 Monroe St., in Mendota.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Mendota with Father Joseph Domfe officiating. Contributions in Jim's memory may be directed to the family for a memorial to be established. Please visit www.horner-merritt.com to sign the online guest book.