Edward Schmitt, Sr.

Edward Phillip Schmitt, age 94, of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord on Friday, July 24th, 2026.

Edward grew up in Wyoming, MI where he established himself as a dedicated home builder and general contractor, building over 600 homes in his 40+ year career. In retirement, he found joy in gardening, maintaining and improving his home, and entering sweepstakes. A lover of music, Edward played the piano and organ, earning him the affectionate nickname, “fingers”. He enjoyed spending time with his wife, Sue, to whom he was married for nearly 72 years. He will be remembered for his steadfast work ethic, his determination to do the right thing, and his willingness to help others - most notably, building each of his four sons their first home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Alvina Schmitt; and his sister, Bonnie Bellgraph, brother in-law Ken Oppenneer. He will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his wife of almost 72 years, Sue Schmitt, who helped him raise four sons and was his traveling partner on many adventures; his sister, Pat Oppenneer; his brother, Tom (Jo) Schmitt; his four sons Edward (Marie) Schmitt, Bruce (Pam) Schmitt, Gary Schmitt, David (Barbara) Schmitt; eight grandchildren, Angela (Joshua) Weaver, Elena Schmitt, Stephanie (Rick) Stevens, Leah (Andrew) Ukrop, Matthew (Rachel) Schmitt, Kristin Schmitt, Joshua and Nicholas Schmitt; and eleven great-grandchildren, George, Kaylee, Cameron, Dillion, Valerie, Isaiah, Eliana, Abigail, Obadiah, Eliza, and Elliot.        

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Ed’s life with the family at Simple Traditions Funeral Home, 3131 Division Ave S, Wyoming, MI 49548, on Tuesday, August 4th from 5:00-7:00 pm. A Memorial Service celebrating Edward’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026 at Simple Traditions, 3131 Division Ave. S, Wyoming, MI, 49548.  

Flowers can be sent to Simple Traditions at 3131 Division Avenue S, Wyoming, MI, 49548, or in lieu of flowers donations given to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.