Michele J. Schmidt, age 60, passed away peacefully due to complications from her long battle with cancer on Thursday, July 9, 2015. Her husband Brad and daughter Becky were at her side.

Michele Joy Smith was born on October 8, 1954 to Harold and Jean Smith in Fargo, ND. She graduated from Shanley Catholic High School in 1972 and later graduated from North Dakota State University with a degree with Speech Pathology. She obtained her Masters degree in Audiology from the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. While in the Audiology program, she met Bradley "Brad" Schmidt of Stevens Point. The couple was married on June 23, 1979 in Fargo, ND. Upon moving to Rochester, Michele served as an Educational Audiologist for the Rochester and Surrounding School Districts. Brad was employed at the Mayo Clinic in the Finance Department. Michele and Brad served as caring foster parents for Olmsted County for over 12 years. Michele was a veracious reader, doting pet owner, and avid and talented cook who enjoyed entertaining family and friends. She had an artistic eye which she applied to cross-stitch, gardening, and home décor. The couple spent many years enjoying the Wisconsin north woods. They were charter members of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Rochester, and Michele cherished Franciscan values.

She is survived by her husband of over 36 years Bradley of Rochester, her daughter Rebecca "Becky" Schmidt of Calmar, IA, a brother James (Karen) Smith of Omaha, NE, and a nephew Ryan Smith of Omaha, NE.

She is predeceased by her parents.

The Funeral Mass for Michele will be held at 12:00PM on Monday, July 13, 2015 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Rochester with Father Tom Loomis officiating. Visitation will be held on Sunday evening July 12, 2015 from 4:00pm until 7:00pm in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home and one hour prior to the Mass at Holy Spirit.

Memorials are preferred to Holy Spirit Catholic Church or the Sisters of St. Francis in Rochester, MN.

Macken Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com