Robert Christian Schmidt

(Donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of London & Area)

Dear Werner and family - Please know your caring community extends far and wide. We're deeply saddened by your loss and pray that, over time, your hearts will find peace and comfort in memories of a life well-lived and a soul that endures.

Our entire family wants to extend our heartfelt condolences to Elizabeth and the entire Schmidt family. Rob was a great guy and our family benefitted from his amazing teaching skills. He will be sorely missed by all those who lives he touched.

We extend to your family our deepest sympathy on the tragic loss of your husband, son & brother. We will always remember Rob as a wonderful gentleman on the court as an instructor & off the court as well. Blessings!

my hearts is with Pauline, Werner, Laura and Allison Schmidt and Elizabeth

Dear Liz and the Schmidt family: Having grown up with Rob on the tennis court and recently reuniting and meeting Liz on our return from abroad, it was clear that Rob lived the life he loved, with humour and passion. Our deepest condolences to you, Liz, as well as Pauline, Werner, Laura and Allison. Our thoughts are with you from Malawi. Sincerely, Josh and Sara

Dear Schmidt family: My deepest and heartfelt condolences. Rob was a great friend and leader; truly one of the most talented individuals I have ever known. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Dear Allison and the entire Schmidt family...It's so difficult to know what to say at a time like this. I could not attend the memorial service because I was in Toronto playing in a tennis tournament. However, Rob was certainly in my thoughts during every match as I was one of those fortunate enough to have benefitted from his insightful teaching skills. He had a maturity and wisdom about him that exceeded his young age and, as a result, he could effectively coach players of all ages. My heart is heavy for you and I will keep you in my thoughts....

Dear Schmidt Family: I am deeply saddened to hear of your great loss. My memories of Rob are from elementary and high school. I remember him as a truly kind, gentle, and talented person. I can only imagine the amazing son, husband, brother, and friend he has been to all of you. My heartfelt condolences go out to your family as I cannot even imagine the immense grief you must all be feeling during this difficult time. My thoughts are with all of you.

Pauline and Werner, Rande and I have just learned of your exceedingly sad news. Our hearts go out to you and your family.

Dear Schmidt family: Although I only knew Rob for a short time, he certainly made an impression on me. I was one of the lucky adults to take tennis lessons from Rob. He was kind, patient and encouraging with a quiet maturity beyond his years. With deepest sympathy, Cathy Perlmutter

Liz, I can't express the level of sadness i feel at this shocking and sudden loss. My deepest condolences for you and the Schmidt Family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Rob was a great, warm, funny and overall a wonderful soul and he will be greatly missed.

Words are inadequate at a time like this. All your lady golfers are thinking of you Pauline, and your family.

This is terribly sad news for all of us. Rob gave all of us many fond memories during his time at Lucas, and now I find it hard to even think that such a bright light could be missing from this world. Laura, Allison, you and your family are very much in our thoughts and prayers.

While I have not seen him in many years, Robbie and I were classmates during our time at Masonville and Lucas and I remember him fondly. My father, Leigh Folliott, called last night to tell me about Robbie's sudden passing. I hope that the many warm memories you have of your son, brother and husband will help you through these difficult times. My thoughts and sympathies are with you all.

My deepest sympathies go out to Rob's entire family. With how much he taught me in such a short time simply working with him, I cannot imagine how much he taught you all throughout his life. He was, simply put, an amazing human being. Enthusiastic, witty, quick with a joke that would make me laugh even after a long workday, Rob left an indelible, yet far too short impression on my life that will last forever. He showed every day that to teach, you have to listen, to gain respect, you have to first show respect, and sometimes, when all else fails, you just have to go with the flow. I know for a fact that Rob changed lives for the better here in North Carolina, and that his spirit will live on in the lives he touched here.

My condolances to Elizabeth and the Schmidt family. Rob was a one of a kind, wonderful man and I am so sorry to hear about this loss. Rob has always been in my heart and will always be in my heart. Thinking about you all during this difficult time.

I learned late of the sudden passing of Rob, and was deeply saddened by the news. My condolences to the Schmidt family in their time of sorrow. It has been many years since my daughter and I took tennis lessons from Rob. But I remember well that he had a personal, warm approach to teaching the game to others; it's a trait not often found in true competitors, and Rob was a force to be reckoned with in a competitive tennis match. I always admired Rob's grace under pressure in a match, and his ability to succeed while remaining a gentleman. Later, I enjoyed reading Rob's writing on the sport in the OTA magazine. He had a way with words as well as with a tennis racquet. I'm sure Rob made lasting memorable impressions on all he met. His time here was short; his legacy endures.

(Donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of London & Area)

Elizabeth, John and Debbie...words cannot express the shock and sadness we felt when heard about your tragic loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Martha, Grant, Garett and Brieta

Schmidt family: Rob has always been such a kind and warm individual and fun person to be around. This loss is so upsetting and heartbreaking. My condolences.

We are deeply saddened by your loss. Watching Rob grow up from a boy to a man has been an honour. We have always held him in high regard, and will continue to do so, as he embodied the values of fair play, athletic skill, political engagement, loyalty to friends and family, and his love for Liz has been joyful to observe. Our deepest condolences go to you all.

To the Schmidt Family: Pat and I extend our deepest sympathy at this sad time in your lives.Rob is not gone, he is just away.For as long as winds blow and rivers flow his lovely spirit will be in our hearts each and every day.

To all: We were shocked and saddened to hear of Rob's sudden passing. Rob was a great friend and he will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends.

Dear Werner and family, We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.

Dear Schmidt Family, We are deeply sorry for the passing of Robbie. Some of my favorite childhood memories with Robbie on ‘Hillside Drive’ include playing tennis, hockey, and table tennis. No one in the neighborhood could forget the infamous "home run wall" in your backyard or how Robbie was unbeatable on the tennis court. Your son was an extraordinary young man. Although we are all away and cannot make it to the funeral to convey our condolences in person, please know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Pauline, Werner & Family, Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your son, Robbie. Words cannot convey the pain and grieving in your hearts. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and, of course, with Liz at this time and in the days and months ahead.

I want to express my condolences to all of Rob’s family, friends and loved ones, and especially to his beautiful wife Liz whom he loved so much. This is a huge shock for us all. Rob taught tennis to my two sons Joseph and Benjamin at Joshua Creek Tennis in Oakville for about 4 to 5 years, and during that time, he was their role model, their hero, their mentor both for tennis and for life. Rob was the best teacher in the world, and that is not a hyperbole. He inspired them, he encouraged them, he corrected their technique, he got to know his students personally, he placed value on good sportsmanship – and plus he was intelligent, handsome, friendly and fun! I am not exaggerating when I say Rob’s influence was irreplaceable in my boys' lives. Both with respect to their tennis and with respect to their character building. I will always be grateful to him for everything he did for Joseph and Benjamin. It was our privilege and our honour to know Rob – our time with him was precious. Our congratulations to his family for raising such a wonderful person. Our hearts go out to you all, especially to his wife Liz – your and Rob’s love will endure forever.

Pauline, we were so saddened to hear about the passing of your son....you and I just golfed together in the spring and shared so many of life's trials and tribulations....this is indeed the most painful loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you move through a most difficult time. In time, may your memories give you some strength and consolation.

Dear Pauline, Werner, Laura and Allison I cannot begin to imagine the depth of your loss. Your whole family is very dear to me and I have so many fond memories of Rob, coaching him in badminton (which he took to so quickly) from grade 9 through to graduation; as well as Laura and Allison, in both badminton and tennis. Rob was also my "breakfast club" home room helper, where he was a positive influence on my grade 9 class. My own son Ryan is the same age as Rob and remembers him well as a 'very talented guy.' And Pauline, we got to know each other pretty well with our road trip to Timmins with Alli and the girls for OFSSA badminton. Thank you so much for the phone call Laura. I regret that I cannot see you in person at this very sad time. My thoughts are with you all. Sincerely, Sharon

I am shocked and saddened to hear of this loss. I only knew Rob during our time together at OISE, but I remember our many chats about tennis. His quick wit and overall positive nature will be missed by many. My condolences to the family and all those who knew him.

Rob was a great guy. Although I only knew him for a year, he was always full of enthusiasm, wit and and a passion for life (tennis and music especially). My condolences to his family, friends and wife. Rob will live on in our memories of him.

Dear Pauline, Werner and Family , Our most heartfelt sympathy is felt for your tragic loss. We remember Robbie at Masonville as so friendly and cheerful. Our hearts are so sad for you. May God help your through your pain. Sincerely Nancy, Roger and Mary Kate More

To the Schmidt Family: As one of Rob's Phys Ed OISE instructors, I am so saddened to learn of his death and wish to send my sincere condolences to all his family members. An avid tennis player myself, I enjoyed our many tennis talks and loved his enthusiasm for the game and for teaching children. When we last spoke he was at the Rexall Centre and enjoying the work experience. He will be missed but not forgotten. Terry Borczon

I am so saddened to hear of your loss. Time will help but for now, remember all the joy he brought to you all

My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Rob was a terrific guy and I loved his great sense of humour and great taste in music. I am so glad to see how much support and love you are all receiving at this time. All the best. Mel

I had the pleasure of getting to know Rob during our year together at OISE. He was a smart, funny, and friendly man who will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who had to opportunity to spend time with him. My thoughts are of him and with his family. With deepest sympathy, Robert Shields

Even though I only knew Rob a short time at OISE, I can say with utmost sincerity that he had a beautiful, friendly, disposition, and a positive, energetic soul. I don't remember ever seeing him without a warm smile on his face and I'm certain he has touched many hearts. Please accept my condolences, Magda Mizgalewicz

Werner and Pauline: I am shocked and saddened to hear of your tragic loss. I remember Rob as a young teenager at John Hatch when he started instructing our practice and play sessions. He was a delightful young man and a great tennis player. My most sincere condolences. Wendy

Werner and family: We are so deeply saddened to hear this news. We know that there are no words we can say that will ease your pain, but please know that we are holding you close in our thoughts and hearts at this time.

Pauline and Werner: Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your son Rob. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of deep sorrow.

In our time together at OISE, I had the pleasure of getting to know Rob, a delightful and positive person. There was a warmth and happiness that followed Rob where ever he went. The news of his passing is so very sad and untimely. To his wife, parents, family and friends -- my condolences on your loss. May you find peace at this time. Rob will be remembered so lovingly by so many.

Dear Pauline, Werner, Allison and Laura. Our condolences go out to your family in this terrible time. We are deeply saddened by Rob's death and realize how profound your grief must be. I recall once talking to Rob about his plans after the completion of his first degree at Western — he was full of hope and promise. May his memory live on through all those who knew him.

Dear Werner, Pauline, Laura & Allison; as well as Liz & her parents: Our profound and heartfelt condolences for this sudden and tragic loss. Rob was a bright and athletic young man; who had a great sense of humour. He was full of life and during his short time with us, he has touched the hearts of many. Rob's memory will live on through anyone who has had the good fortune to meet him. We hope that you know you will have the support of many good friends; to help you through your sorrow and heartache. Our prayers are with all if you. Alan, Janet, Katie and Kyle & Katie.

Pauline, Werner and Family; We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved son Robbie. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time. John, Mary Anne, Katrina, Stef, John Jr. and Steve

As a teammate of Rob's on the Western tennis team, and growing up playing tennis in London, I knew Rob as a talented tennis player. But, at Western I was fortunate to have the opportunity to get to know Rob off the court as well. I was a rookie on the team in my first year of University in 2004, and in a lot of ways was still trying to figure out who I was as a person... and I remember being struck by how intelligent and secure Rob was as an individual. He was the kind of person and player everyone looked up to, and I feel lucky that I got to play a small role in one chapter of his life.

While the loss of a loved one is never easy, it is most certainly the hardest when they are taken from us too soon. We offer our sincere condolence and deepest sympathy on your loss. May the outpouring of sympathy, the kind acts of friends and strangers, and the comfort in knowing that your loss is felt by many, help you through this difficult time. Rob was a wonderful man, and we will always remember him fondly. He will be greatly missed by those whose lives he touched. We are keeping you and your wonderful family in our thoughts and prayers . May you find the courage and strength to move forward in peace, and know that Rob's was a life well-lived. Thinking of you, The Brahm family

Pauline, Werner, Laura & Allison: There are no words to express our shock and deep sadness when we heard of your tragic loss. Rob had many friends in London and area who will miss him greatly. Our hearts go out to you during this very difficult time. God bless, Dave, Joan, Shane, Nikki, Carly & Michael

Pauline, werner, Laura, Scott, Allison and Ian ... we are deeply sorry to hear of Robbie's death. I keep picturing Robbie and Lisa side by sid in their carseats when they were just a few months old and the picture of them dressed in identical t-shirts at layolomi. I cannot imagine your pain. Please take care of yourselves and we will see you Friday.

Pauline and Werner my heart breaks for you. My son and daughter are about the same age and the thought of losing them is more than I could bear. I hope with the help of your loving family and friends you are able to somehow get through this terrible tragedy. Alll my love and sincere condolences. Val

I'm so sorry for your loss Elizabeth. Sonja and I were stunned and saddened to hear of Rob's sudden passing. Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. You guys seemed so perfect together. Even though we didn't know Rob well, he was good enough for us because you loved him. We hope that your amazing memories will give you some comfort. Know we are thinking about you and wish we could be there to lend our support. All our love, Josh and Sonja

Liz, There are no words to express how sorry I am for your loss. Although I never met your husband, I know that for loving you he was truly a wonderful man. My heart breaks for you, if you need anything at all please do not hesitate to contact me. You are in my thoughts. All my love, Heather

I was shocked and saddened by the news of Rob's passing. Your family is such a tight knit bunch and I know that you will come together and stay strong. He was such a funny (I loved his sarcasm) and laid back person who will be missed. I'm sure he was a wonderful coach because he was so coachable himself (just like Allison and Laura). I have been thinking of you guys all week. Take care and stay strong.

Dearest Pauline and Werner, Allison and Laura, and Liz… I, the one who is never without words, am speechless. Karan, Trisha and I are heartbroken, for you and also for ourselves. Such a loss, and so unfair. We always felt Rob had such a great deal to contribute… On our visits to you, Pauline and Werner, it was always an extra, genuine pleasure when we found Rob there too. Many great discussions about whatever was the topic du jour. We are sad we cannot be there to hug you all, sad that really there is nothing we can do to help you with this horrible burden. But know that we share your sorrow, your shock, your hurt, and that we are thinking of you, and hoping that somehow you will find solace.

Pauline and Werner - I am so sorry to hear about your son - while I didn' t know him personally I heard many stories about him from both of you at our "spinning" classes - my thoughts are with you and your family.

I am shocked and saddened to hear of this tragic loss. At OISE Rob was never afraid to speak his mind - his contributions were always so insightful and I remember thinking how lucky we were to have him in our group and more importantly how lucky we were to have him educating our youth. Such a bright, well-spoken, intelligent guy, always with interesting things to say and a fresh and thoughtful perspective to offer. When Rob spoke everyone listened and were better for it. I remember also the times he spoke of Liz and his parents - you could tell how much he loved and respected his loved ones and what a positive force you all were in his life. My heart breaks for you and I offer you my deepest sympathy.

Liz, you have been on my mind all week- so much sympathy for you and the Schmidts. This is so devastating. Rob was such a wonderful man and the two of you were a fantastic couple- so obviously in love, but also the best of friends. I am deeply saddened and offer my heartfelt condolences to you all.

My deepest condolences to Rob's friends and family.

I am so very, very sorry for your terrible and shocking loss of Rob. My heartfelt sympathy and condolences are with all of you.

When Rob was a student at OISE, his spirit and his sense of humour made an impact on all of us. He had so much to offer the world, and his loss is truly a tragedy. My deepest sympathy to all of you who loved him and miss him.

Although I had the pleasure of getting to know Rob briefly the first day of class at OISE, it is amazing how memorable he was simply from chatting with him for a few short hours. My condolescences to Rob's family and friends.

To all: I am deeply saddened to hear of the news about Rob. There are no certainly no words that can sum up the emotions being felt right now, nor any words which can sum up how incredible of a man Rob was. I hope we can all remember the positive influence that Rob had on all of us, and share the many stories we have about him with each other. My condolensces go out to the family and all those who loved him. He will be sadly missed by all.