Ernest G. "Skip" Schmid, Jr.

Poland - Ernest G. "Skip" Schmid Jr., 86, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2023 at Briarfield Manor.

He was born March 13, 1937 in Youngstown, a son of the late Ernest and Nina (Wille) Schmid. Skip's family moved to Struthers when he was three years old, and he graduated from Struthers High School in 1954. He attended Youngstown State University and Ohio Mechanic School where he received training to follow in the family business, Ernie's Auto Services.

In 1956, Skip volunteered for the draft, serving in the Navy in Alaska. Years later, the family business closed and he worked at various machine shops until a work accident brought about an early retirement.

He was deeply rooted in his faith, and was a member of Pilgrim Collegiate and Brownlee Woods Church of Christ, before becoming a member of First Covenant Church. He enjoyed Saturday morning breakfast with the Protestant Men's Congregation.

Skip was an avid Cleveland Indians fan, and played baseball when he was younger as a pitcher. He also loved the Cleveland Browns. He was a very handy person to have around, and had a passion for woodworking. Most of all, he loved his family and were their biggest cheerleaders, especially his grandchildren.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his beloved wife of over 65 years, the former Thelma "Pinky" Callison, whom he married August 9, 1958; his daughters, Stephanie (Matthew) Grist of Wooster and Leslie (Richard) Black of Poland; his grandchildren, Stephen (Allyson) Grist, Michael (Brittany) Grist, Dan Black, and Melanie Black.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Mitchell Black; and his siblings, Viola Deppen, Betty Ann Hoffman and William Schmid.

Private services were held and he was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Boardman.

The family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to all who cared for Skip in his time of need, especially in his final days.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers. Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send the family condolences.