It is with a very heavy heart that the family of Larry Richard Schmidt of Shafer, MN, announces his unexpected passing on March 4, 2023 while enjoying the winter visiting Lakewood Ranch, FL. Larry was born on February 12, 1948 to Richard and Muriel Schmidt of Chisago City and had just turned 75.
Larry attended Chisago Lakes High School, graduating in 1966. He met his wife Linda in 1969 and they were married on May 23, 1970 and remained married for 36 years. Larry and Linda remained friends until the time of her passing in 2020.
Larry and Linda owned many businesses through the years including a fishing bait business, wholesale jewelry, a seafood truck, a Samurai Sam's franchise, MGM Liquor Warehouse, Smitty's 61 Club, the 5th Ave Eatery in St. Cloud, Hilltop Liquors, two auto dealerships, and Larry most recently ran a dump truck business. But Larry was best known by his community for his long-time ownership and hospitality at Smitty's in Chisago City where he grew up; and The Border Bar in Taylors Falls, where he and Linda cooked and entertained their local friends for many years.
Also known as "Border Billy" and "Big Lar", Larry had a great love for meeting new people, and never met a stranger. He was the definition of an extrovert and hated being alone. He was known as an all-around great guy and was almost always smiling and laughing. Larry had many, many longtime friends and was always befriending anyone he came across. He was a great friend and family member who would give the shirt off his back to help others, and was well known and liked in his community. He loved animals, hunting, fishing, playing golf, watching any kind of sports, playing cards, an occasional trip to the casino and had a love for classic cars. He loved to cook and explore new restaurants, particularly those that were family owned.
Larry is preceded in death by his mother and father, baby sister Schmidt, ex-wife Linda, and many beloved pets. He is survived by his daughters, Amy Schmidt (Frosty), Angela Boone (Anthony), granddaughter, Sarae, sister, Patricia Konkler (Richard), and nephews, and many loving friends and extended family. Larry will be deeply missed by his girls and all those who loved him.
A Celebration of Life has been planned for April 1, 2023 from 3-5 at the Chisago Lakes Township hall, 12400 316th St, Lindstrom. The family would appreciate assistance with funeral expenses or memorials in lieu of flowers.
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