Ricky Schmidt

Ricky Lynn Schmidt, 66, of Newton, Ks., was called home November 14, 2018.

He was born January 10, 1952, in Newton, the son of Orville E. and Elizabeth (Betty) V. Schmidt.

He attended Newton schools and upon graduating from Newton High School he proudly join the United States Navy and became a nuclear specialist, (nuclear submarines), while serving his country.

Before being honorably discharged from the service Ricky was strongly encouraged to gain employment, at the urging of a family friend, at the Wolf Creek Generating Station near Burlington, Ks., as it was being constructed, where he was instrumental in firing up the plant for the first time, as an Operator. He was top in his field in water purification.

Ricky retired from Wolf Creek Generation Station yearning for more knowledge. He then attended Allen County Community College and Kansas State University graduating top of his class and earning degrees in both nuclear science and nuclear engineering.

Retirement didn’t last long. He gained employment with Wichita Waterworks in Wichita, Ks., once again implementing his knowledge of water purification until retiring there, as well.

Ricky loved the outdoors. He spent many hours bass fishing in the many ponds on his ranch near Burlington, Ks. He also enjoyed hunting, water sports and off-road recreational sports. He had many passions – science and his country being at the top of the list.

Ricky is survived by his parents, Orville E. and Elizabeth (Betty) Schmidt of rural Newton; brother Larry T. (Diana) Schmidt of rural Sedgwick, Ks.; sister Jill A. (Tony) Gonzalez of rural Newton; daughters Dawn (Steve) Fisher of Iowa, Janet (Jeffrey) Belton of Arizona, Lyla (Shane) Sullivan of Kansas and Madelaine (Nick) Berthelson of Missouri; eight grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

Private family services will be held.

Arrangements are by Broadway Colonial Funeral Home, Newton.