Richard Robert Schmiedicke

In Loving Memory of Richard Robert Schmiedicke

Richard Robert Schmiedicke, 73 years old, of Grand Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. While our hearts are broken by his loss, we take comfort in knowing that he has been welcomed into the loving arms of his Savior.

He was born on August 19, 1952 in Grand Rapids, MI to Robert Emmett Schmiedicke and Helen Jean O’Malley.

On September 23, 1983, he married the love of his life, Ruthie, and together they shared a beautiful marriage filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. One of their favorite places was at the lake, where they spent many summers together at Shelp’s Resort, a place that became part of their love story and held many of their happiest moments.

He is survived by the love of his life, Ruth (Marek) Schmiedicke; his children, Sunshine Ackerman, Bobby and Chrissy Henning, Jon and Caitlin Schmiedicke, Sarah and Randy Middleton, Katie and Nick Smith; his grandchildren, Taylor, Hailey, Kaitlyn, Emma, Layne, Maverick, Jensen, and Josephine; his father, Rober E. Schmiedicke; his siblings, Anne (William) Wilson, Joanie (Paul) Dion, Rick (Marian) Marek, Kathleen (Dr. Bernard) King, Johnny Marek; and many nieces and nephews, cousins, dear friends, and countless people whose lives were touched by his kindness, love, and wisdom.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Jean O’Malley (Schmiedicke), his father-in-law, Richard Thomas Marek, and mother-in-law, Donna Jean Daane (Marek).

To know Richard, was to know a man of tremendous compassion, unwavering faith, and a heart that seemed to have room for everyone. One of the greatest passions of his life was his dedication to AA, where he celebrated 50 years of sobriety and service. He was a devoted sponsor to many over the years, offering guidance, hope, and encouragement to those who needed it most. Through AA, he formed many treasured friendships that became an important part of his life, and he was deeply grateful for the fellowship and connections he found there.

Richard ended the last years of his work career with FedEx Office, (Best job ever, in his words), where he proudly served as a District Manager. He was a respected leader known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and genuine care for the people he worked alongside. He led not only with knowledge and experience, but also with kindness, patience, and encouragement. The friendships he formed during the years at FedEx extended far beyond the workplace and remained meaningful to him throughout his life.

His faith in God was the foundation of who he was. He believed deeply in the power or prayer and faithfully prayed for his family, friends, and those in need. For more than 20 years, he was actively involved in a weekly small group where he found friendship and opportunities to grow in his faith and encourage others in theirs. He lived his faith through kindness, compassion, humility, and service to others, and his trust in God guided him throughout life.

He also found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending quiet hours reading, fishing, napping, watching movies with those he loved, late night snacking, a great cup of dark and bold coffee.

Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the gift of his life and the countless memories he leaves behind. His legacy of faith, love, friendship, and services will live on in all who knew him.

“Those we love never truly leave us. They live on in the hearts they touched and the love they gave.”

The family would also like to thank Faith Hospice and all of the amazing nurses for their compassionate care and support. 

There will be a visitation, funeral, and luncheon on Monday, June 29, 2026, at St. John Vianney Church. The visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., the funeral at 11:00 a.m., and the luncheon to follow immediately after.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catherine’s House, Guiding Light, or Safe Haven. 

May his memory be a blessing and his legacy of love continue to shine through all who were fortunate enough to know him.