Robert Dean Arnold Schmidt

Robert “Bob” Dean Arnold Schmidt, 85, of Albert Lea, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, surrounded by his loving children and grandchildren.

Robert was born at home on the family farm in Wood Lake, Yellow Medicine County, Minnesota, on May 21, 1940, to Arthur and Dorothy (Wilson) Schmidt. The second of four children, he was remembered by his mother as a sweet, easy baby who rarely cried and smiled at everyone. Bob was baptized at St. Luke’s congregation on June 9, 1940, and proudly graduated from Wood Lake High School with the Class of 1958. He moved to Albert Lea in 1973, where he would spend the rest of his life.

On June 26, 1981, Bob married the love of his life, Suzanne Bell, in Austin, Minnesota. Together they shared 44 years of devotion, joy, and unwavering companionship. A dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, Bob was known for his strong work ethic and steady presence. He spent many years driving truck for Cenex and Freeborn County Co-op before retiring in 2008 and later continued working with Minnesota Corrugated Box simply because he enjoyed staying active and connected.

Bob had a generous spirit and gave freely to charities throughout his life. He embodied kindness, warmth, and a gentle nature—a man with a twinkle in his eye and a smile that could light up a room. Anyone who experienced that smile couldn’t help but return it.

His love for Sue was extraordinary. He moved into assisted living so he could remain by her side, finding it too painful to be apart. Caring for her gave his days purpose and meaning. Bob loved his family deeply and was always present for them, celebrating milestones and offering support whenever it was needed.

He found great happiness in the outdoors, spending countless hours fishing, hunting, and boating. Bob was a passionate supporter of his grandchildren’s activities, especially their hockey and football games. He proudly cheered for his favorite teams—the Minnesota Vikings and the Army Black Knights. A natural storyteller, he brought laughter to any gathering. He drank coffee all day long and enjoyed a Brandy before bed, a familiar routine that his family will fondly remember.

Bob is survived by his wife, Suzanne; his children Wendi (Tom) Cancalosi, Tamera Schmidt, Neal (Kathy) Schmidt, Jamie (Amy) Tufte, and Lance (Kasey) Tufte; his beloved grandchildren April (John) Brandt, Dane Nelson, Dylan Shemon, Dominic Shemon, Tommy Cancalosi, Heidi Cancalosi, Alyssa (Mike) Macy, Trevor (Brynn) Schmidt, Kaili Schmidt, Lyrik (Justin) Klingl, Vedder (Maddie) Tufte, Gavin (Mallory) Tufte, Tanner (Alex) Tufte, Riley (Morgan) Tufte, and Tessa (Josh) Tufte; his adored great-grandchildren Madalyn Brandt, Evan Brandt, Evalyn Brandt, Ariella Brandt, Parker Nelson, Sofia Macy, McClain Macy, Brooklynn Schmidt, Hendon Schmidt, Linkin Klingl, Otto Tufte, Bowen Tufte, Jax Tufte, T.J. Tufte, Cal Tufte, and Emery Tufte; his sister Carol (Cliff) Timm; and sister-in-law Annette Schmidt; as well many extended family members and friends.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Dorothy Schmidt; and his brothers Melvin Schmidt and Kenneth Schmidt; as well as sister-in-law Lenae Schmidt. 

A funeral service celebrating Bob’s life will be held on Monday, December 1, at Zion Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, MN (924 Bridge Ave., 56007). Visitation will begin at 1 p.m., with services at 2 p.m., officiated by Pastor Matthew Lehman. All who knew and loved Bob are warmly invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Bob’s generous spirit by making a donation in his name to any charity of your choice. The family extends a heartfelt thank-you to his granddaughter, April Brandt, for her steadfast care and support to both Bob and Sue over the past year.