James M. Schmidt of Park Ridge, Illinois passed away September 20, 2025. Beloved husband of the late Jill for 56 years; dear father of Tracey, Jamie (Maureen), and Patrick; proud and cherished grandfather of Cassidy, Zachary, Colin, Lexie, Molly, and Nicholas; dear brother of the late Peggy (Marv) Ricklefs, the late Christian (the late Rosalie), and Stephen (Cindy); devoted son of the late Christian Schmidt and the late Marion Schmidt; fond uncle of many nieces and nephews. Family and friends will meet on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 West Talcott Road, Park Ridge, Illinois 60068 for a Visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. followed by a Prayer Service at 11:30 a.m. Interment Maryhill Cemetery, Niles, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, consider donations to Illinois Railway Museum , For further information please call 847-823-5122