Connie Ann Schmitt

Connie Ann (Childers) Schmitt, 63 of Martell, Nebraska and most recently Hamilton, Montana passed away Saturday, September 14, 2013 at the Marcus Daly Hospice and Palliative Care Center in Hamilton, MT. She was born October 14, 1949 in Seward, Nebraska. Daughter of the late Charles and Winnifred (Eppert) Childers. Connie was one of nine children, four brothers and four sisters.

Connie graduated from Utica High School in Utica, Nebraska in1967. She attended AMTC Trade School for Data Processing in Kansas City, Missouri and graduated in the summer of 1967. While at tech school, she met Randall Schmitt whom she married on January 30, 1968 in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Her first job was for the State of Nebraska in Brand Inspection. She worked for Lincoln General Hospital for many years before MetroMail/Experian Corporation. She completed her working years at the Community Blood Bank in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Connie's first love was her family and most of all her grandchildren. She and Randall enjoyed deer hunting at the family's "farm" The Doe Drop In, near Crab Orchard, Nebraska. She was an active supporter of the Saline County (Nebraska) Relay for Life. She enjoyed the outdoors, gardening and making her famous freezer salsa. Connie served as the hostess for many family holiday gatherings. Connie was never one to make favorites. Her grandchildren had the great experience of receiving her unconditional love. They were all able to spend time with her making cookies, having her attend school programs, recitals, ball games and spending time outdoors together. Connie was sure to make several trips to Montana to see her grandchildren and be a special part of their lives, as well.

Connie battled breast cancer for over 13 years. She persevered through many ups and downs and never once did she complain. Never once did she make it a big deal. She was always concerned about how others were doing - not wanting the focus on her. She was loved by so many near and far and a hero to those she never even met.

Survivors include: husband Randall, son and wife Douglas and Amy (Martell, NE), daughter and husband Tracy and Chad DeVall (Hamilton, MT). Grandchildren Kelsey Schmitt (Crete, NE), Marlon Arita (Crete, NE), Emily Schmitt (Martell, NE), Caelen, Madeline and Lea DeVall of Hamilton, MT. Also survived by a large extended family and numerous friends.

Memorials in her name to Saline County Relay for Life and the American Breast Cancer Foundation.