Kip Schmidt, age 70, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away on July 30, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with ALS.
Born on April 21, 1956, in Traverse City, Michigan, Kip was the son of Edward Schmidt and Marilyn Eckerdt. He was preceded in death by both of his parents.
On September 14, 1990, Kip eloped with the love of his life, Christine, in Empire, Michigan. Together they shared 35 wonderful years of marriage filled with countless adventures.
Kip is survived by his wife, Christine Schmidt, and her family; his son, Ian Schmidt; his daughter, Taylor Velazquez (Adam); his brothers, Kurt Schmidt (Donna) and Kyle Odren; his sisters, Cynthia Schmidt-Moileen (John) and Lynn Willems (Luther), Shalyn Smagacz (Daniel); four beloved grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy; many extended family members and dear friends.
A proud United States Marine, Kip served as an Embassy Guard in Kathmandu, Nepal, an experience that greatly influenced him in life. Over the years, he called Michigan, Florida, and Nepal home.
Kip spent more than 40 years as a respected gemologist and goldsmith, and created Christine’s wedding ring. Never one to shy away from new challenges, he also worked as a Realtor and even on an oil rig, earning a reputation as a true jack of all trades.
A member of Journey of Grace Church in Oldsmar, Kip had an avid passion for theology and religious studies. He was a seeker of knowledge, who could often be found learning something new via YouTube.
Outside of work, Kip loved riding motorcycles and making memories on the road with Christine. He enjoyed jogging and proudly completed the Disney Marathon alongside his wife in 2000. He was often found listening to Stevie Ray Vaughan and the classic rock of the 1970s. His unique sense of humor could brighten any room, friends and family knowing he could recite Nacho Libre almost word for word.
Above all else, Kip’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was being a grandfather.
Those who knew Kip will remember his personality and charisma, his adventurous heart, faith in God, and the love he shared freely with others. He made friends wherever he went and left an unforgettable impression on those who knew him.
Christine would like to extend her deepest gratitude to Sally Myers, one of Kip’s lifelong childhood friends, who spent every Thursday visiting with Kip and Christine throughout his illness. She also wishes to thank Marta Castro, whose care and kindness meant so much to them both.. Lastly, Christine extends her heartfelt thanks to everyone who offered prayers, cards, kind words, and any expressions of love during Kip’s illness. She read every message to him, and he truly felt surrounded by love.
A celebration of Kip’s life will be held at Journey of Grace Church, 377 Fountainview Cir, in Oldsmar, FL, 3467, on August 20th, 2026, at 11:00AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ARM Tibetan Ministry. Donations may be mailed to:
ATTN: Tenzin and Ruth
ARM Tibetan Ministry
P.O. Box 446
Dundee, OR 97115-0446
ARM Tibetan Ministry
P.O. Box 446
Dundee, OR 97115-0446
Kip will be deeply missed, forever remembered and loved.
