Kent Sylvester Schmitz, 67, of Red Lake Falls, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.
Kent was born on December 19, 1958, in Red Lake Falls, Minnesota, to Sylvester Jacob and Helen Gladys (Weiss) Schmitz. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Church and attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School before graduating in 1977 from Lafayette High School. On October 29, 1988, Kent married the love of his life, Kathleen “Kathy” Solheim. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and community. Their marriage was blessed with three children, Ashley, Garrett, and Leah, who were the pride and joy of his life.
Kent spent his career in construction with Schmitz Builders, where his strong work ethic, craftsmanship, and dedication earned him the respect of many throughout the community. He took great pride in the projects he helped build and the relationships he developed over the years.
While Kent was known for his work, his greatest happiness came from spending time with his family. He especially treasured the moments he shared with his grandchildren and could often be found cheering on his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews at their sporting events. He loved hunting, fishing, and gathering with family whenever possible. He especially enjoyed the annual cousin camping tradition which he began in 1987. Known for his playful sense of humor, Kent had a special talent for getting the daycare kids riled up before making a quick exit, leaving plenty of laughter behind.
Kent was a dedicated member of his community. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Sons of the American Legion, and the Blue Line Club, where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014. He also generously gave of his time as a volunteer first responder for the local ambulance service, always willing to help those in need.
Grateful for having shared in his life are his wife, Kathy Schmitz of Red Lake Falls; children Ashley (Pat) Leines, Garrett (Hayley) Schmitz, and Leah (Skyler) Bergeson; grandchildren Brooklyn, Tate, Letti, Lainey, Rawlings, and Cooper; a grandchild expected to arrive in November 2026; and his brothers, Gale (Carol), Joel (Judy), Terry (Mary), Kevin, Troy (Stacie) and sisters, Sharon (Mike), Roxanne (Ross), Kristie (Rusty), Cindy (Walter), DelRae (Bruce), Brenda (Wayne), and Paula (Denny), along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Helen Schmitz; brother Brian Schmitz; nephews Simon and Christopher; and several beloved aunts and uncles.
Kent will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his generosity, his willingness to serve others, and the joy and laughter he brought wherever he went. His legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply and the countless lives he touched throughout his years. Blessed be his memory. Mass of Christian burial for Kent will be held 11:00 AM on Friday, September 25, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Red Lake Falls, MN with Father Bob Schreiner Officiating and John Bruggeman Deacon.
Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery near Red Lake Falls, MN.
Visitation will be held on Thursday starting at 5:00 PM with a prayer service at 6:30 PM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Red Lake Falls and one hour prior to the service at the church on Friday.
In lieu of flowers the family invites you to consider making a memorial donation to St. Joseph’s Church Building Fund or The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge (2500 University Ave SE Minneapolis, MN 55414)
Accompanist: Polly Beyer
Cantor: Amelia Ganyo, Niece of Kent
Casket bearers: Nephews of Kent
Honorary casket bearers: Brothers & Sisters of Kent
Reader: Sara Kenfield & Angie Vasek, Nieces of Kent
Server: Kaydon Kenfield, Great Nephew of Kent
