Rodney William Schmidt
Thu, 02/03/2022 - 11:04am
Heraldgroton
Rodney William Schmidt, Officer in the USMC, beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Groton on Friday, January 21, 2022 with his devoted wife, Jacqueline Viau, at his side. Born December 11, 1938 to Mary and William Schmidt, Rod and his brother Bob grew up in Philadelphia, PA. As a young man, Rod was smart and curious. Over the years, at holidays and family gatherings, he enjoyed telling stories of the shenanigans he and Bob got themselves into growing up together in Philadelphia. Rod was known for his courage, strength and wisdom. He had the mind of a "German Engineer" and a heart big enough to be the caretaker of others. After proudly serving in the US Marine Corps, Rod graduated from Boston University and shortly thereafter went to work for Honeywell. There he met his wife, Alice. From Honeywell, he was hired by Digital Equipment Corporation where he rose through the ranks to become a well-liked and highly respected executive leader. For many years Rod was the devoted caregiver for his wife, Alice, who battled progressive MS for many years. Despite the demands of fatherhood and his profession, Rod faithfully visited Alice multiple times a week and remained her strongest advocate until her death in 2016. For those who knew him well the USMC slogan, "Semper Fi-" ..."always faithful" fit Rod to a tee. Rod was always an avid learner, a mentor and an inspiring role model for others. He was particularly committed to helping young women strengthen their self-confidence and their feelings of personal empowerment, especially in the workplace. He devoted a great deal of time and energy helping others grow and develop themselves.
During his lifetime, Rod's passions included golf, guitar music, cars, tools of every kind, and motorcycles, especially Triumph motorcycles! Even at the age of 82, Rod was on his bike enjoying the freedom he felt riding around the highways and back roads of Massachusetts. Lastly, Rod dearly loved his home in Groton. He took pride in his many home improvement projects and pleasure working outdoors in his yard.
Rod is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Jacqueline; his three grown daughters, Leanne, Jennifer and Erin; his brother Bob; his sister-in-law Ellen; his nephews Adam and Andy; and his two wonderful granddaughters, Madeleine and Ellery. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held in the spring at a date and time to be announced.
Arrangements under the care of Badger Funeral Home, A Life Celebration Home, Groton. To share a memory or offer a condolence visit: www.badgerfuneral.com.