Fondly remembering former IPS faculty member Stephen Schmidt

Former IPS professor of religious education, Stephen A. Schmidt, Ed.D., age 79, of River Forest; beloved husband of Hildegarde “Gick” nee Rehwaldt; loving father of Elizabeth (Douglas Swartz) Schmidt, Deborah Schmidt (Christopher) Rogers, Stephen (Arlene Sweeney-Schmidt) Schmidt and Ruth (Kevin Zamzow) Schmidt; cherished grandfather of 11 and great-grandfather of one; dear brother of Herbert (Grace) Schmidt and Henrietta (the late Harold) Kieschnick; fond uncle of many.

Dr. Schmidt, a Professor of Religious Studies, taught at Concordia Teachers College, Mundelein College, and the Institute of Pastoral Studies at Loyola University, Chicago. His funeral service was held on Thursday, September 6.  The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorials to Institute of Pastoral Studies, 820 North Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611 or Grace Lutheran Church and School, School Fund would be appreciated.

Professor Schmidt joined the Institute of Pastoral Studies faculty in 1991.  In 1994 he was appointed the coordinator of the Center of Evangelization, Catechesis and Religious Education at the Institute of Pastoral Studies.   A prolific writer, he wrote extensively in many areas, dealing with topics such as religious education, catechesis in a changing world, campus ministry, teaching, church leadership and living with chronic illness.   Dr. Schmidt also served as editor of Stauros magazine.  As Graduate Program Director of the Master of Religious Education degree,  (1994-1998)  Stephen was involved in proposing new curriculum and meeting the needs of the student population composed of both experienced religious educators and those new to the profession.

Though Stephen ended his full time tenured position with Loyola in 1999, neither Loyola or the Institute of Pastoral Studies was ever far from his thoughts.  He intended to stay involved and he did.  We are filled with great gratitude for his teaching relationship with IPS which remained one of support and encouragement over the years.  His leadership and friendship will be missed.

We invite each of our alumni to contribute memories of how Professor Stephen Schmidt touched your life.