Mary Kay Schmidt
April 4, 1948 – June 26, 2025
About Kay
Mary Kay Schmidt, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away surrounded by family on June 26, 2025 at the age of 77. Born on April 4, 1948, in Glencoe, Minnesota, Kay was the fourth of five children born to Homer and Irene Hoelz. She grew up in Belle Plaine, MN, where she developed the deep family bonds and values that would define her life.
While attending Belle Plaine High School, Kay met the love of her life, Paul Schmidt. Their high school romance blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and they were married on August 3, 1968. Before their marriage Kay pursued her studies to become a nurse, combining her natural nurturing spirit with professional skill.
In 1972, Kay and Paul settled in Rosemount, Minnesota, where they raised their four children in a warm and welcoming home. After the birth of their first child, Kay began providing home daycare, offering generations of children not only care but also love, structure, and laughter. Her daycare became a cherished place in the community, remembered by many as a second home.
Kay had a gentle, steady presence that drew people—and animals—toward her. She loved spending time with family and had a strong, enduring connection to her siblings and extended relatives. She also nurtured a close-knit group of friends who brought joy and support throughout her life.
Outside of her work and family life, Kay enjoyed traveling, antiquing, and simply sitting on the porch with Paul, watching the world go by. These quiet moments brought her peace and joy.
Kay’s legacy is one of kindness, strength, and devotion to family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband Paul her brother Rog and her brother-in-law Bob. She is survived by their four children; Sarah Monn (Kevin), Tim Schmidt (Denise), Mark Schmidt, Jenna Williams (Joe), grandchildren; Alexa Monn, Abby Meade (Zach), Charlie Monn, Devon and Joe Schmidt, Emily Schmidt, Jack, Sophie and Henry Williams. She is also survived by her siblings; JoAnn Schmit (Dick), Judie Walerius, Jackie Barbes (Gust) and in-laws: Helen Hoelz, Gary and Carol Mueller and Dan and Naomi Schmidt. She will also be missed by countless friends and former daycare families who were touched by her care.
A funeral service to honor Kay’s life will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 13900 Biscayne Ave. W, Rosemount, MN on July 9, at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior. A luncheon will follow.