MONICA SCHMIDT

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

MONICA (MASSEY) SCHMIDT We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, Monica (Massey) Schmidt, who died suddenly, but peacefully, on Sunday, September 11, 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer. Monica will be missed by many; left to mourn her passing are her husband of almost 30 years, Steve Schmidt, their children Adam and Erika, her mother, Mary Massey, her brothers Robert (Kelly), Daryl (Joanne) and Dan Massey, her father and mother-in-law Greg and Julie Schmidt, her brothers-in-law Mike, David (Lynda), and Philip (Christine), her best and closest friend, Johnette Pevarnick, and many extended family and friends. Monica was predeceased by her father Raymond Massey. Monica was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and grew up on Assiniboine Crescent. She attended Birchwood Elementary, Golden Gate Junior High, Silver Heights Collegiate and the University of Manitoba, graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. Monica started her career at Price Waterhouse as a Certified Management Accountant. She and Steve moved to Markham, where their beautiful children, Adam and Erika were born. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Redmond, Washington. Moving to the U.S. for Steve's career with Microsoft meant that Monica was not able to work outside the home for a time, and she threw herself wholeheartedly into the care of her family and friends. She enjoyed entertaining, gardening, volunteering with both the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides of America. As time passed, she decided to branch out in her career path, earning her certified fitness training credentials and starting her own business - the Iron Lady Fitness Studio. Monica enjoyed supporting and challenging her clients to enjoy better health and fitness, and her interest in these areas led her to her next career, as a Registered Nurse. Most recently, she worked as a school nurse working with special needs children, a job she especially loved. Monica's choice of name for her business and herself - the "Iron Lady" - was more than just a catchy name. It embodied her attitude and passion for fitness and health and was important to more than just her clients and her career - it was integral in her personal fight against cancer. Her steely resolve and positive attitude to the very end will be a lasting legacy and inspiration to us all. Cremation has taken place. A reception to celebrate Monica's life will be held Friday, September 23 at 2:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Winnipeg Airport West, 2520 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 17, 2016