Ross Arthur Schmidt

Ross is the beloved husband of Chris, who shared a wonderful life in their home and community in Germany. Services in their hometown took place on February 24th, and then Chris accompanied her husband's body to Michigan. Ross is also survived by his brother Scott (Debbie) and a loving extended family. Ross was preceded in death by his cherished parents Emil and Doris. Ross and Chris shared 42 wonderful years together in different parts of the world mostly in Germany, where they met and fell in love when Ross was stationed there during his 9 year service in the aviation detachment of the U.S. Army. The discipline and patriotism he learned in the Army never left him, as friends and family will attest. Aviation was Ross' passion. After leaving the Army, he made it his career.  He studied to become an airplane mechanic and then an inspector, also advanced to examiner for airplane mechanics.  Simultaneously, he became licensed to pilot airplanes and helicopters.  He understood the aircraft both from the technical and a pilot's aspect. Ross loved airplanes, working on them, flying them and talking about them on end with friends, customers or anybody interested.  He was a hard worker, reliable and very conscientious about the work he did. He was always improving and keeping up with new technology and thus had acquired a vast knowledge, had a lot of experience, which he gladly shared with anyone willing to learn.  He enjoyed teaching. Truly, a "well respected man," Ross earned a great reputation in the aviation community in Europe and in the local Ann Arbor area. He enjoyed a global span of friendships, and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Watching car races was also a big interest.  In Europe, he and Chris traveled to different countries where Formula 1 races were held. For many years he went to Detroit Lions' game, tailgaiting with his dad, brother and friends; he loved telling stories and had a great sense of humor. The family will receive friends for two days of visiting at the funeral home:  Saturday, March 7th from 3 pm to 8 pm and Sunday, March 8th from 2 pm to 8 pm. Services will take place on Monday, March 9th, beginning with a final visiting period at 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 am at St. Matthew's United Methodist Church located at 30900 W. Six Mile Road in Livonia (48152). A procession to Glen Eden Memorial Park will follow and, after the U.S. Army Honor Guard and Flag Presentation,  Ross will be laid to rest with his parents.  Guests are invited to the memorial luncheon back at the church, immediately after the committal service. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to your favorite charity or to Lymphoma research.  Please share your thoughts and memories here, in the Guestbook.