Norma Jean Schmidt

Norma Jean (Kirkbride) Schmidt, 86, St. Joseph, MI passed to her eternal home on May 26, 2016 at 11:45 AM at the Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville, MI.  Norma Jean was born August 2, 1929 in Grand Haven, MI to Lisle and Helen (Huizenga) Kirkbride. She grew up in Coopersville, MI and graduated from high school there in 1947. On January 19, 1951, she married Frederick John Schmidt.  She attended Western Michigan University where she obtained a teaching certificate and ultimately a Master’s degree in 1972.   Norma is survived by her son, Schuyler (Cindy) Schmidt of Fishers, IN, two grandsons, Zach (Amanda) Schmidt of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Adam Schmidt of Fishers, Indiana and one great-granddaughter, Jocelyn, a sister-in-law, Pokey (Roger) DeGraaf and brother-in-law, Harry Hofstra. She was preceded in death by a sister, Lois Hill, and a large number of brothers and sisters in law.   A note of thanks to the staffs at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, Royalton Manor and Hanson Hospice Center who cared for Norma Jean during her last months, as well as a special thank you to her devoted caregiver, Laurie Springs, who helped her greatly the past 5 years.  Visitation will be on Saturday, June 4 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM with the funeral immediately following at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 49085. Those wishing to sign Norma’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.    In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Memorial Endowment at the First Church of God, St. Joseph, MI.