Cecil Robert Schmidt

Cecil “Buddy” Schmidt, 94, of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

He was born on May 27, 1931, in Yoakum, Texas, to Robert and Tillie Schmidt. He grew up in Yoakum, where he was active outdoors and played varsity football for the Yoakum Bulldogs.

After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Korean War. For his service to his country, he was awarded the Korean Service Medal with six Bronze Stars. Following his military service, he settled in Corpus Christi where he met his wife of 67 years, Sandra. He worked as a pipefitter in the oil and gas industry and retired from Valero Corpus Christi in 1998.

Buddy enjoyed watching sports, caring for his cattle on a small property in Bee County and working in his garden growing vegetables for family and friends. He was a longtime member of St. John Lutheran Church in Robstown, Texas, and will be remembered as a loving and caring son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Tillie Schmidt; his sister, Louise McDonnold; and his brother, E.J. Schmidt.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Schmidt; daughter, Vicki Schmidt Brough, son-in-law, Alan Brough; son, Bobby Schmidt; granddaughter, Amanda Brough; sisters, Doris Schmidt, Joyce Mueller, Roberta Wenzel, her husband Tom; sister-in-law Sharon Mueller; and several nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Buddy will be buried with Military honors at Coastal Bend State Veterans’ Cemetery on April 23, 2026 at 2 pm.