Larry Leroy Schmidt

Larry Leroy Schmidt, age 83, of Marion, Iowa, formerly of New Hampton, passed away on September 27, 2025.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton.  Interment will be at later date in the Jerico Lutheran Church Cemetery.  

Friends may greet the family 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 2, 2025 at the Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton.  Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Larry was born on February 14, 1942, in Charles City, Iowa, the son of Lawrence Schmidt and Angeline (Kulish) Urban. He grew up in New Hampton, where he attended school. On June 13, 1964, Larry married the love of his life, Doris (Anderson) Schmidt. Together, they raised their children in New Hampton and built a life filled with love and laughter. 

After working in construction, Larry began his career at John Deere in Waterloo, where he worked for 31 years before retiring. Following retirement, he stayed active by working security at Underwood mink farm. They also ran the race track in Cresco for a few years. 

A familiar face around town, Larry enjoyed his mornings at Car Quest, having coffee and catching up with friends. He had a lifelong passion for racing, building and racing his own stock cars for more than 30 years. During that time, he won many races and championships, and was honored with induction into the Racing Hall of Fame in 2024— a recognition of his dedication and love for the sport.  Larry enjoyed NASCAR, hunting, fishing, caring for animals, joking around and above all, spending time with his family.

Larry is survived by his wife of 61 years, Doris; his sons Todd (Lacey) Kelley of Fredericksburg, IA, Jamie Schmidt of Marion, IA, Jeff Schmidt of Cherry Valley, IL, and Jodi (Amber) Schmidt of Marion, IA; as well as many grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Angeline Schmidt; brother, Lawrence Jr. in infancy.

Larry will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love of racing, and the joy he brought to his family and friends.