The Life of Rev. William L. Schmid
Rev. William L. Schmid, affectionately known as Bill, gracefully entered the Church Triumphant on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Born in December 1935 to William H. and Ruby Wolfgang Schmid in York, Bill was deeply cherished by his family and community. He joins his late wife, Eileen J. Schmid, in eternal peace.
Bill graduated from North York High School, class of 1953. He continued his academic pursuits at Elizabethtown College, earning his B.A. degree in 1962. His passion for the Church and serving others led him to the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, OH, where he attained his Master's Degree in Divinity, furthering his studies with a Master's Degree in Sacred Theology from Gettysburg Seminary.
Throughout his vocation, Bill touched many lives through his dedicated service. He served two EUB congregations in Milford Mill and Dorsey, MD, before being called as the senior pastor at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Carlisle, PA. His tenure at St. Paul's spanned nearly 15 years, during which he became a pillar of the community, offering solace and guidance to countless individuals.
Bill later joined his family's business, the D.E. Wolfgang Candy Company in York, where his leadership and integrity left an indelible mark. In 2000, he retired, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.
Bill's faith extended beyond the pulpit, as evidenced by his active involvement at Advent Lutheran Church, where he found joy in singing with the choir and playing bells. He also lent his voice to the York Symphony Chorus, enriching the community with his musical talents and strong tenor tone.
Bill's memory will be cherished by his two sons, Michael and Stephen, and their respective spouses, Lori and Jamie Schmid, as well as two granddaughters, Laurel and Stella Schmid.
A viewing for family and friends will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2024, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Etzweiler Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, 1111 East Market Street, York, followed by a burial service at Prospect Hill Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Advent Lutheran Church, 1775 East Market Street, York, with the Rev. Andrew Berdahl officiating. A time of fellowship will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Elizabethtown College or Advent Lutheran Church, reflecting Bill's commitment to education and his faith community.
In the hearts of those who knew him, Rev. William L. Schmid will be remembered for his unwavering faith, compassionate spirit, and enduring legacy of love. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the heavenly choir he so cherished.
Arrangements by the Etzweiler Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, 1111 East Market Street, York, PA 17403.