Julius E. Schmidt, 92

Julius E. Schmidt, 92, passed away peacefully at Hospice of North Idaho comforted by family on Oct. 3, 2015. He was a longtime resident of Hayden, Idaho.

Julius was born to Peter and Dora Schmidt on March 26, 1923. He was one of 12 children. He grew up in North Dakota on the family farm and attended school through the eighth grade. He left North Dakota to serve his country during World War II. He spent time in the Philippines and earned an Army rank of Tech Sergeant 5th grade. Upon release from the service he moved west, first working in the mines and then in logging.

In Grangeville, Idaho, while logging he met Mary Joan Hass. Mary and Julius married in 1952. Mary had a son, Clark Norman, and together in 1955 they had Dolan.

In 1955, Julius suffered a logging accident that forced him to change occupations. He and Mary began farming and moved the family to Bonner County, Idaho. He enjoyed farming and participated in that endeavor the rest of his life. He especially loved his Bue Lingo Cows and his dogs.

In 1960, Julius and Mary opened the first rental store in Kootenai County. As a family they have grown the business and U-Rent Inc. is a well-known source for rental needs in the area. Julius loved his family and his friends.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo, and sons Clark (Connie) and Dolan (Jill). He had three grandchildren, Chad Schmidt, Christina Ackerman (Ryan) and Sally Schmidt. Julius had two great-grandchildren Avery and Brantley Ackerman. He also is survived by two siblings Lenora Schmidt Craze of Spokane, Wash., and Richard Schmidt of Colorado.

Private family services are being held. Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d’Alene Chapel, is in charge of the arrangements.