Trudy Schmid passed peacefully, on October 23, 2021, after a prolonged illness, surrounded by family and wonderful caregivers. She was an only child, born Gertrud Adelheid Benz to Heinrich and Marie (Schwitter) Benz in 1933 in Locarno, Switzerland. Trudy spoke Italian, Swiss German, English and some French. She was married to her love and constant companion Victor for over 60 years. They emigrated to the United States with their young son Silvio in 1957. Their first U.S. home was on Long Island, New York, where a few years later they welcomed their daughter Susan to the world.
Eventually, Trudy and Victor moved to New Hampshire, where they had a lovely hilltop home in the woods, overlooking a small lake. It reminded them of Switzerland. A great love for all animals meant that the family adopted countless pets over the years. There were always bird feeders outside the kitchen window so songbirds would join them in their corner of the forest.
As an outdoor enthusiast, Trudy spent many vacations camping and hiking. Frequent trips were made to Switzerland to see relatives and enjoy the scenic wonders of her home country. At home, she kept busy tending gardens filled with fabulous flowers and abundant vegetables. There was always a boat at their lake home and many generations enjoyed their time on and in the water. She also reserved time for artistic pursuits: flower arranging, piano playing, sewing, knitting, ceramics and stained glass. She made many Christmas decorations and prayer shawls with her friends at church.
Trudy was blessed to be a wife, mother, and grandmother (Oma). Family was important. She made it her mission to find a way to make everyone feel her love. Visits to her home often included tasty food, lively conversation, and card games. She was known for baking delicious breads and desserts, making jam, and special Swiss Culinary treats. Her cookies were highly sought after at fundraisers.
The Schmids were friends of Smith Memorial Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, in Hillsborough, NH, where Trudy was active with the Ladies’ Aid Society, The Deborah Society, and helped with functions at the historic Union Chapel. They also regularly attended the New Hampshire Swiss Club events.
Trudy is survived by son, Silvio (Amy) Schmid; daughter, Susan (Jim) Walker; and grandchildren Forest, Steven, Katherine, Brook, Bryce, and Alison.
Funeral Mass will be held 10:00 am Friday, October 29, 2021, at St. John the Baptist Church, 44 School Street, Quincy, MA, 02169. Interment will be private beside Victor, in New Hampshire near their family home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite animal welfare organization.