Dr. Oscar Schmitt

Dr. Oscar A. Schmitt, age 92 passed away at his home on February 20, 2021 surrounded by his loving family.  He was born in Erie on April 2, 1928, son of the late Leo and Leona Schmitt.  Oscar graduated from Academy High School, class of 1946, where he met his sweetheart and future wife Jeanne Anderson. He attended Penn State University and was an active member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity followed by the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine.  Oscar and Jeanne were married in St. Patrick’s Church and had a wonderful marriage for almost 70 years. They were true life partners.

He proudly served in the US Navy on board the USS Fremont for 2 years followed by 19 years in the US Naval Reserves.

He was a founding partner of Plaza Dental in Erie and enjoyed practicing dentistry for over 50 years. His patients along with the staff became a key part of his professional and social circles. Many will remember receiving one of his signature “press apply roses” after a dental visit. His roses are still seen when out and about in greater Erie and never fail to bring a smile.

Oscar was simply a joy to be around. His character was founded on authentic goodness and kindness that was truly genuine without expectation. His daily life was one of giving and helping others in need. With each passing day we realize more and more that our dad touched countless lives with his contagious attitude of positivity and Fruit of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. A navy colleague of Oscar’s who became a 3 star admiral and commander of the US Seventh Fleet, said that Oscar was the most optimistic person he had ever met.

He served as an active member of St. Paul’s Free Clinic as well as a volunteer at the Pennsylvania Soldiers and Sailors Home. Oscar was also a lifetime member of the Erie Maennerchor Club, the site of many family gatherings and was often seen enjoying Sunday brunch.

Oscar was a founding member of St. Luke’s Parish where he was actively involved in organized Scouting for many years. He was most recently a member of St. Julia’s Church.

Outdoor fishing with family, friends and neighbors was one of his favorite activities. He would have a twinkle in his eye as he often reminisced about his fishing trips to Canada with Gilbert and Ron Steg with many laughs, good cigars and an “occasional” Crown Black or scotch.

Oscar also immensely enjoyed crafting with cut glass. His best work included stained glass windows and wall hangings, many of which can be seen in the homes and businesses of both family and friends. He was an active member of The Glass Stop Art Glass Studio in Erie and considered Steve and Sue Konzel as wonderful teachers and good friends.

Many thanks to our family: Joe and Karen Meyn; Kay DiGello; Yuriy and Jessica Perederiy; Frank and Kay Karle; the staff at Plaza Dental and many others. Each of you were an important part of Oscar’s life.

We would like to thank Oscar’s “personal” medical team to which he said rivaled the team for the late President George HW Bush. This includes Warren Beaver, Carmine D’Amico, Dave Seastone, Zdzislaw Chorazy, Sidney Lipman, Marlene White, Gary Esper, Howard Levin and Dave Dieteman. Special thanks also to Encompass Health (Doug Grieser) and especially to Dr. Gieger and Great Lakes UPMC Hospice (caregivers Tom, Christina, Laurie, Casey, Kathleen and James). We could not have provided Oscar the quality care without you.

Oscar is survived by his loving wife Jeanne; 3 sons: Michael (Mary Ellen); Christopher (Kealani), their children Leila and Skyler; Patrick (Sandi) and their son, Bach; step grandson Luca Winters (Rheanna), their children Stella, Luca and Otto. Oscar’s grandchildren, to whom he was “Papa Osky,” were all very special to him!

In addition to his parents, Oscar was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Schmitt and his sister, Rosemary Dailey.

We feel so blessed that our father took the time to experience life with us. The fond memories we will forever cherish of fishing, water skiing, river rafting, Boy Scout adventures, singing German songs & playing Crazy Eights are gifts etched in our minds.

Thank you Dad for running the race as a true champion!

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Community Health Net (CHN), 1202 State St., Erie, PA 16501. CHN helps provide excellent healthcare at multiple locations to all area residents regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at 11 a.m., at St. Julia Catholic Church, 3750 West Lake Road, Erie, PA. The family requests everyone who attends to adhere to CDC COVID Guidelines and are asked to wear masks and practice social distancing. Interment will be private.

Arrangements by the Quinn Funeral Home, West 9th & Liberty St.

Condolences can be sent to www.BurtonQuinnScott.com