Philip Schmidt

Philip James 'PJ' Schmidt was born July 26, 1919, in Springfield, MN to Fremont and Hilma (Cederberg) Schmidt. Following his graduation from Springfield High School, Jim worked for the Rural Electric Association for 2 years. From 1937-1938, he trained as an electrician and became a lineman after 2 years. Jim enlisted in the U.S. Naval Aviation Cadet program and joined a San Francisco squadron in 1944. During World War II, he flew anti-sub patrols in the South Pacific. Jim returned to Springfield in 1946 and laid out the Springfield Airport, and also assisted in the layout for the 2nd airport. He set up a flight school in '46-'47 and as a certified pilot, taught flying lessons to many student pilots. Jim purchased Ostlie Electric in 1947 and worked as a licensed electrical contractor, working as Schmidt Electric for the next 40 years. He was united in marriage to Betty Schultz on February 14, 1949, at Zion Lutheran Church in Springfield. Jim was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and a member of John Watson American Legion Post #257. He was a member of the Springfield Public Utility Commission for 38 years. Jim enjoyed flying, constructing model airplanes, reading, geology, fishing and gardening. Jim Schmidt died Thursday, April 16, 2009, at his home in Springfield. He is survived by wife Betty; children- Steven of Springfield, Laurie and husband Wayne Nelson of Willmar, Deanna and husband Dennis Prough of Utica, MI, and David and wife Cindy of Charleston, SC; and 7 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers- Donald in infancy, Kenneth, Floyd and Harold. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to donor's choice.