Richard “Dingus” Schmidt

Richard “Dingus” Schmidt

Alburnett

Richard “Dingus” Schmidt, 81, of Alburnett, Iowa, died on Friday, December 22, 2023. Funeral Services: 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the Chosen Few MC Clubhouse, 1027 9th Street SW, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404. Visitation: 5-7 p.m. on Friday, December 29, 2023, at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids.

Those unable to attend are invited to watch the service via livestream. Please find the livestream link on Richard’s Tribute Wall and share your support and memories with his family at www.stewartbaxter.com under Obituaries.

Survivors include his wife, Cindy Petersen; children, Brandy Pabst and Tami (George) Runyon; grandchildren, Kylie Pabst, Courtney (Monty) McMillan, and Tristan (Natalie) Runyon; great-grandchildren, Gavin, Emory, and Anya; sister, Delores Ternes; sister-in-law, Cheryllyn Schmidt; many nieces and nephews; and his faithful companion, Sophie.

Richard was born on February 28, 1942, in Mandan, North Dakota, the son of Floyd and Ella (Popelka) Schmidt. He graduated from Mandan High School, attended the South Dakota School of Mines, and served in the U.S. Army National Guard. Richard married Kaye Hogan, they later divorced.

He worked as a talented machinist for his entire career, retiring from Vector Corporation. Richard met Cindy Petersen many years ago, leading to their marriage on October 22, 2013, just recently celebrating their ten-year anniversary. He loved spending time with his family, especially spoiling his granddaughter, Kylie. Richard cherished his “Grandpa’s Girl,” playing an essential part of her life since she was a young child.

Dingus, as he was known to his brothers, was a faithful and dedicated member of the Chosen Few MC. He was their first prospect 54 years ago and will be remembered for his amazing ability to fix motorcycles and rebuild engines. It was often said, “Dingus invented cool.” His friendly kindness will never be forgotten.

In his free time, he enjoyed tinkering around his acreage and caring for all of the dogs and barn cats he had over the years. His gentle soul will be his legacy.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Gary Schmidt, Donald Schmidt, and Edna (Eugene) Kottsick.

Memorials may be directed to the family.