Mark was born August 8, 1958, the son of Edward and Jean (Whitson) Schmidt. Mark was born in Minot, ND, and grew up on a farm south of Minot in Afton Township. Mark went to South Prairie Elementary School. The highlight of his time at South Prairie was playing Ebenezer Scrooge in the school's Christmas play. He also enjoyed recess and lunch! Mark attended Minot High School. His fondest classes were the agriculture and shop classes. He was a member of the Minot High School FFA club. The FFA club provided a group of lifelong friendships, especially the friendship of Bob Peterson and his wife, Kathy. Mark particularly enjoyed their visits to the Black Hills area, phone calls, and Kathy's chocolate chip cookies.  Throughout his youth, Mark loved exploring the farm on his horse, Penny, riding motorcycles, and owning and repairing a mishmash of vehicles. Getting together with family for holidays was also a part of his upbringing. There was always a lot of food, games, and horsing around with cousins. Some of Mark's cherished memories are of the times that he and his cousin, Jack, spent with their grandpa at his farm.
In 1976, Mark joined the United States Army. He was stationed at Fort Hood, TX, and was trained as a tank mechanic. Although he didn't make a career out of the military, he was proud of his service. He was also grateful for the help that he received from the Veteran's Administration.  Through the guidance of the Fort Meade Medical Center, Mark received services for overall health and well-being.
Getting out on the highway and riding a Harley had always been a passion for this free-spirited man. So, it is only fitting that he moved to the Black Hills of South Dakota. Eventually he settled his roots in Sturgis, SD.
The turning point in his life was in May of 2001. It was then that he met his soulmate, Lillian. It is due to her love that he found true joy. Along with Lillian, he also gained two daughters, a son-in-law, and three grandchildren. He was extremely proud of his family and loved them unconditionally. Mark had a special relationship with his stepdaughters, Kelly and Misty. He and Kelly will be remembered for their battling of wills moments. His pride and joy was his daughter, Misty. She was the one who looked out for him, guided his decisions, and believed in him. He cherished being a Grandpa. He loved reading to Winona, playing chess with Lilyrose, and was constantly entertained by William's antics.
Mark Carl Schmidt, age 61, of Sturgis, SD, passed away on March 10, 2020, at Regional Hospital in Rapid City, SD.
Mark is survived by his wife, Lillian; daughter, Misty DuBray and son-in-law, Josh Sherman;
grandchildren, Winona Werlinger, and Lilyrose and Willam Sherman; brother, Gordon (Cheryl) Whitson, Pasco, WA; and sister, Nancy Bolte, Carson, ND; niece, Carrie Wickstrom; nephews, Marshal and Austin Bolte; and fur babies, Sophia and Dozer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Jean Schmidt; and daughter, Kelly.
Due to the coronavirus outbreak, a private committal service will be held at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD. A celebration of Mark's life will be held at a later date.

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