Randy Fredric Schmidt, beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend and pastor, went home to heaven unexpectedly on May 5, 2017 at age 57. He is deeply mourned and loved by his father, Rev. Harold "Hal" Schmidt, and his 6 siblings and their spouses: Diane Lynn (Roy Tuckman), Cynthia Lee (Perry O'Kano), Rodney Harold (Ann Glenn Schmidt), Holly Joy (David Warburton), Ricky Brian (Sheryl Piazza Schmidt), and Heidi Gay (Mark Mitchell). He is also deeply missed by his adored Schmidt nieces and nephews: Andrew Porter, Arielle Paige, Alexandria Patience, Alec Parker, and Abigael Payton. He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Marjorie Irene Porter Schmidt.

Randy was born on May 2, 1960 in St Charles, Illinois. He grew up in Wheaton, Illinois and graduated from Wheaton Central High School in 1978. Randy began working in children's church ministries in 1980, while he completed his Bachelor of Arts degree at Wheaton College. He received his degree in Christian Education, and was ordained in 1988. For more than 30 years, Randy served as Youth Pastor, and then head Pastor at Praise Fellowship Church, in Carol Stream, IL. Especially memorable are his years leading the children's program, Sun Light Club, the High School program and the "20 Something" college and career program, where lives were changed forever.

Randy was a man of God; he truly manifested the fruits of the Holy Spirit. His life touched more lives than could ever be counted. He was wise beyond his years, and was beloved by the families, children and young adults whom he shepherded. He was always there for them; his easy-going, down-to-earth style helped them to believe in themselves and to grow in Christ. All who knew him loved him for his many endearing qualities. He was generous beyond description, and his sweet, dry sense of humor could always spark a laugh, even in the darkest moments. He took time for everyone, and those he cared for continued to receive notes of love, celebration and encouragement through the years.

It is said, "It is not what you do with your life that matters, but what your life sets in motion for others that counts." It's a comfort to know that Randy's life truly set love into motion for so many, and will survive long into the future. In his father Hal's words, "Randy fulfilled the promises of Jesus in his encouragement for all to become children of God " (I John 3:1).

A visitation will be held on Thursday, May 11, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., in Wheaton, IL. Services and interment are private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to People's Resource Center , 201 S. Naperville Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187.