It is with a mixture of sorrow and celebration that we announce the passing of Steven Philip Schmidt, who left this world on September 4, 2025, at the age of 64.
Born on March 16, 1961, in Hartford, Connecticut, son to the late Rodney Francis Schmidt, Sr. and Anita B. Schmidt, Steven spent his early years growing up in the Nepaug section of New Hartford and the Winsted area, where he attended Region 7 schools. Though he moved around quite a bit throughout his life, Steven finally found his home in Plainville, where he built a beautiful life with his cherished wife of 13 years, Carol Anne Heslin-Schmidt. Together, they created a haven filled with laughter, support, and a profound bond that showcased the depth of their love for one another.
Throughout his life, Steven was known for his capacity to weave captivating tales that brought smiles and laughter to those who gathered around him. He was an enthusiastic fan of Jeopardy and he loved playing Roulette at the casino. In addition, he enjoyed attending NASCAR races and his joy for eating while sharing meals brought warmth to many gatherings.
With a spirit that brought warmth to everyone he encountered, Steven was known affectionately as "the coffee guy" at the Alcoholics Anonymous meetings he attended regularly. As a dedicated coach for sober softball, he touched the lives of many by promoting teamwork, perseverance, and the transformative power of second chances.
He was a beloved figure in the community, known for his generosity and kindness, which he exemplified through countless hours of volunteer work at
The Salvation Army Bristol Corps on Stearns Street. Steven had a unique way of connecting with people, making friendships that lasted a lifetime.
Steven was a lover of classic cars and enjoyed both the beauty and craftsmanship of these vehicles. A voracious reader, he immersed himself in a variety of genres, always seeking to expand his knowledge and share insights with those around him. An avid fan of both the New York Giants and the New York Yankees, Steven had a passion for sports that brought him joy and camaraderie with fellow fans. Professionally, he was a talented contractor, specializing in roofing, and took immense pride in the quality of his work, always striving for excellence in every job he completed.
In addition to his wife, Carol Anne Heslin-Schmidt, Steven is survived by his siblings, Rodney F. Schmidt, Jr. and his wife, Darla, Laura A. Heslin and her husband, Howard, Joseph J. Schmidt and his wife, Denise, Keith E. Schmidt, Sr., Thora Boudreau, and Debbie Szymkiewicz; several nieces and nephews, whom lovingly referred to him as UncUnc; and many friends and other family members, including Laura Newton and her husband, Chris, and Neal Heslin. Steven was predeceased by his siblings, Robert W. Schmidt, Linda D'Anzie, Ronald Barrett, and Gary Barrett.
Steven's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at the Fresenius Kidney Care Center in Newington, where he received compassionate and skilled care during his dialysis treatments. Their kindness and support brought light to some challenging days.
A service in celebration of Steven's life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 11am at
The Salvation Army of Bristol, 19 Stearns Street, Bristol CT 06010. A reception will follow at
The Salvation Army Hall.
Donations in memory of Steven may be made to the
The Salvation Army of Bristol, 19 Stearns Street, Bristol, CT 06010 (https://easternusa.salvationarmy.org/southern-new-england/bristol/) or to the
National Kidney Foundation, Attn: Gift Processing at
National Kidney Foundation HQ, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016 (https://www.kidney.org/). For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Steven Philip Schmidt, please visit our floral store.
Published by WFSB on Sep. 15, 2025.