Harold Schmitz

Harold Schmitz, 89, recently of Webster, died on Friday, June 26 at Alomere Hospital in Alexandria, MN.

Harold was born on the family farm in Wells County, ND on January 19, 1937, and grew up on the family farm. He graduated from Harvey High School in Harvey, ND in 1955, and upon graduation went to work for Gambles hardware store.

He served in the US Army from 1958 to 1960, and upon his honorable discharge moved back to Harvey to resume working for Gambles.

He was married to his one true love, Ruth, on June 2, 1962, and they were inseparable until Ruth's passing on July 13, 2008.

Harold's work with Gambles took him to Harvey, ND; Carrington, ND; Watertown, SD; Webster, SD; Alexandria, MN; Saint James, MN; and back to Webster, SD. He purchased the Gambles store in Webster in 1970 and continued to live in webster for the next 50 years. After selling the store he worked at Dakotah and Dakota Tube.

Harold enjoyed traveling, camping, dancing, and woodworking. He especially enjoyed visits from his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Harold entered Grand Arbor Assisted Living in Alexandria, MN in July of 2025. He enjoyed his time there getting to know the staff and residents, remaining his happy-go-lucky self and having fun joking with the staff.

He is survived by his three sons, Michael (Alice) Schmitz of Alexandria, MN, David Schmitz of Littleton, CO, and Bil (Laurie) Schmitz of Olivia, MN; his grandchildren, Zachary Schmitz, Amanda Volesky, Justin Schmitz, Ashley Ebnet, and Morgan Ryan; eight great-grandchildren; and his sisters, Emily Schmitz and Linda Docktor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Gertrude Schmitz; his wife, Ruth Schmitz; his brother, Raymond Schmitz; and his sister, Sister Mary Ann.