Eric D. Schmidt

Eric D. Schmidt, 31, died after a long battle with cancer on Thursday, September 15, 2011, in his home, surrounded by family and under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.Eric Dean was born in Aurora, MN on October 21, 1979 to Carol Ihry and Michael Schmidt. He grew up in Buhl, MN where he graduated from high school. Eric worked at an Italian bakery in Viriginia, MN, Farmoor Valley Egg Company in Lake Park, MN, concrete construction in Fargo, ND and most recently, at Hibbing Animal Shelter in Hibbing, MN. Eric later moved to Hitterdal, MN where he most recently lived. His son, Cameron Michael was born in October 2, 2006.Eric had a passion for all sports. He collected sports cards and followed the Minnesota Vikings and Twins. Eric also had a love for animals, especially his cat, Gus, which he adopted from Hibbing Animal Shelter. He also enjoyed fishing and derby races. Eric is survived by his mother, Carol Dwight Ihry, Hitterdal, MN; father, Michael Gail Schmidt, Buhl, MN; son, Cameron Schmidt, Barnesville, MN; one brother, David Schmidt, Buhl, MN; step-siblings, Tina John Olson, Louis Melissa Ihry, Heather Ihry and Nathan Ihry; step-grandparents, Dave and Jane Ihry; aunt, Sharon Schmidt; uncles Norman Carlene Benson and Howard Kathy Lamb; God parents, Dave and Jane Vukelich and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ione Viger and Frank and Norma Benson.