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Richard Karl Schmidler, age 88, of Griffin, passed away April 2, 2025.
Richard was born in Hanau, Germany on April 10, 1936, to the late Joseph and Katarina (Densler) Schmidler. He grew up in Hanau, alongside his parents and his brother and sister.
After high school, Richard completed an apprenticeship program in fine cabinetry and later earned his Business Degree in Germany. While in Germany, he had a career in wood working and fine cabinetry. He was also a Jazz musician in Germany, France, and Spain for 8 years, playing the saxophone and clarinet. During his time as a band member playing in Dreaux, France, for the US Air Force he met and fell in love with his bride-to-be, Eva. The two were wed in the summer of 1960 in Frankfurt, Germany, and had 64 years of love, laughter, and family together.
At the age of 26, Richard immigrated to the United States. Richard and Eva put down roots in Southern California for 52 years. He became a citizen and a successful businessman. He worked in the home improvement industry for 7 years and later took a job as Vice President at Jaru Art Products for 14 years until his retirement at age 47. In 2013, they moved to Sun City Peachtree in Griffin, GA. to be near family.
Richard enjoyed socializing and hosting parties. He spent his retirement years enjoying sports on TV, traveling with his wife, and playing table tennis at the Spalding County Senior Center. Richard will be remembered as an amazing husband, father and grandfather. He was highly respected by his friends and neighbors, so much so that they would often request his advice on a vast number of subjects.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents: Joseph and Katarina (Densler) Schmidler; his son, Raymond Ari Schmidler of Mt. Pleasant, SC; his brother, Walter Schmidler; and his sister, Hilde Stiller. He is survived by his wife, Eva Schmidler of Griffin, GA; his son, Martin Schmidler and daughter-in-law Maggie Schmidler of Smyrna, GA; Julie Schmidler and granddaughter Katerina Olivia Schmidler of Mt. Pleasant, SC.
A private family memorial service for Richard will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Richard’s memory to the Mazon organization or the American Technion Society.
The Schmidler family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 1086 Hwy 54 West, Fayetteville. Messages of condolence may be left at www.GeorgiaCremation.com.
Victoria DiSanto says
Although I only knew Richard for a short time. I enjoyed speaking with him on various topics. He was so kind and welcoming. His pride in his work and many talents touched my heart. I only wish I had more time to really know the depth of this fine gentleman. From the minute I met Eva I also felt a deep connection with her and her family. I pray for all and may Richard rest in peace. Vickie & Joe Di Santo
Donald Yenche says
Mary and I express our sorrow at Richard’s passing..
Mark and Deborah White says
Martin – Mark and I are so sorry for your loss of your father. Loosing a parent is never easy. Know that our love and prayers are with you and your family members.
Eva Epos says
Martin, I’m so sorry for the loss of your Father. He was such an accomplished gentleman and will be missed. Hugs and love to you.
Felice Shekar says
May his memory be a blessing.
Rosemary Kaasa says
So sorry for your loss Martin. Their move to GA truly was a gift to you all, you helped both your mom and dad and I know he loved your visits, Your dad was so interesting and truly a lovely man. Our thoughts are with you all.
Isaac & Se Moon says
Eva, I am so sorry losing your husband. Richard was a faithful man who care for others. He was a good coach who taught us by his example.
Isaac & Se Moon says
Eva, I am so sorry losing your husband. Richard was a faithful man who care for others. He was a good coach who taught us by his example.
Gary & Dee Rygh says
Our condolences on the passing of Richard, he was a good neighbor as well as a friend. Dee & I would stop by after our walks on most summer evenings and sit on his porch and chat for a while. Richard & Eva would tell us stories about when they were growing up and show us pictures when they were much younger. I especially would enjoy the stories Richard would tell about his growing up in Germany during the war and the tough times he went through. Richard will be missed by us as well as his nieghbors and friends, rest in peace Richard.
James &Mary Gayle Newland says
Eva. We are so sorry to hear of Richard’s passing. From that first day we met you in Home Depot our friendship began. We enjoyed the time together during the neighborhood parties. May you rest in peace Richard and know you were loved.
John & Rita Wienhoff says
Eva, our condolences for your loss of Richard. He was such an interesting person to sit and listen to. You and. Richard were such great friends and neighbors. He will certainly be missed. God bless you and may Richard be at peace.
Linda Jo Brown says
Eva, my condolence for your loss of your Richard. God bless you and Richard.
Brenda and Michael Collins says
Eva. So sorry to hear this very sad news. Thinking of you and your family.
Rest in Peace Richard.
Tom Messer says
Dear Eva, I will always cherish the afternoon coffee and conversation I had with you and Richard. It was such an honor to know him if only for a little while. I will be praying for you and Martin as you go through this. If you ever need a light bulb changed or need to talk let me know.
Jo Anne Balcombe says
Dearest family, Martin, Eva, Maggie, Julie, Katerina, May you be comforted at this time of the passing of your kindhearted, and soft spoken, Richard. What a great life he lived! Our thoughts and prayers are with you for God’s grace to shine upon you with his love. Psalms 121
Steve and Colette Smith says
Dear Eva, we are so sorry for the loss of your beloved Richard. we think of our 67 years of friendship and we will cherish knowing him. Thank you for our phone call that said it all. Randy, Kevin and Carol send their condolence and love.