Jerald E. Jerry Schmidt, 74, of Grand Island, Nebraska, died Friday, December 28, 2012, at St. Francis Medical Center. Jerry gave the ultimate gift, bequeathing his remains to the Nebraska Anatomical Board. Memorial services will be Monday, December 31, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Leos Catholic Church. The Rev. Charles L. Torpey and Rev. Harold R. Kurtenbach will concelebrate. Burial will be at a later date in the ONeill Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday, December 30, 2012, from 4 7 p.m. at St. Leos Catholic Church, with a vigil service at 7:00 p.m. Curran Funeral Chapel is assisting the family. Jerry was born August 16, 1938, at ONeill, Nebraska. He was the son of Ernst and Annalee (Miller Gallagher) Schmidt Survivors of the immediate family include his wife, Cherrian Schmidt of Grand Island, NE Three sons and two daughters-in-law, Steve & Ann Schmidt of Hartford, WI Ron Schmidt of Phoenix, AZ Brian & Raquel Schmidt of Crete, NE One daughter and son-in-law, Beth and Tim Welke of Battle Creek, NE Six Grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Jerry grew up in ONeill, graduating from St. Marys High School in 1956. He began working for Safeway Stores. He married Cherrian A. Knepper on August 15, 1960 at Burke, SD. They lived in ONeill and Jerry was President of S & S. Stores. In 1986 S & S Stores merged with Country General. Jerry and his family moved to Grand Island where he was Vice President of Operations for Country General. He retired in 1988. Jerry helped pioneer the Little League Baseball Program in ONeill, he enjoyed fishing, and watching his grandchildrens school and sports activities. He was a member of St. Leos Catholic Church, active in their R.C.I.A. program and a willing volunteer whenever needed. Memorials are suggested to St. Leos Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, step father, William Gallagher, a grandson Caleb Schmidt and a sister, Bonnie Hicks. On-line condolences may be given at www.curranfuneralchapel.com under Jerrys obituary.