Roderic F. Schmidt

Roderic Francis Schmidt, age 79, passed away peacefully at home on March 6, surrounded by his loving family, after courageously living with Parkinson’s disease for nearly five years.

Rod was born on July 23, 1946, in Allentown, New Jersey, to the late Frank and Inez Schmidt. He grew up in a large and loving family, including his brother Terry and sister June, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and family friends. Childhood adventures—family camping trips in the Pine Barrens and boating on Barnegat Bay—fostered his lifelong love of fishing, nature, insects, and exploration.

In 1967, while seeing a movie with friends, Rod met a beautiful concession stand employee, Barbara Ann Pecht. After some deliberation, he asked her on a date, becoming one of the most significant decisions of his life. During their courtship, which relied heavily on letters, Rod spent two years completing his Bachelor of Science at the University of Arizona and 18 months serving in the United States Army as an engineer during the Vietnam War. After his honorable discharge, Rod returned home in 1970 to marry the love of his life, Barbara Ann.

Early in his marriage, Rod pursued a graduate degree in Entomology from Rutgers University and, upon his graduation, he began a 32-year career with the Middlesex County Mosquito Commission.  His dedication to public health and his strong work ethic led to his appointment as Superintendent of the agency in 1997.

Rod and Barbara ultimately settled in Monroe, New Jersey in 1974, and were soon blessed with their first child, Roderic David. Over the next decade, their family grew to include Katie, Sarah, and Joseph. Together, Rod and Barbara built a loving, joyful home for their children and shared their faith as a family as active parishioners of Immaculate Conception Church in Spotswood.  Rod was a dedicated, patient father,  giving of his time freely and guiding his children by example.  

In 2004, Rod and Barbara retired to Waretown, New Jersey. There, Rod devoted countless hours to volunteering at the Waretown Historical Society and Southern Ocean County Hospital Thrift Store. He also enjoyed bowling in the Berkley Seniors Bowling League, traveling the world with Barbara and other family and friends, and fishing from his boat. Perhaps most joyfully, he embraced his role as “Poppop” to his seven grandchildren, whom he adored.

Rod found joy in life’s simple pleasures—a delicious meal, learning something new, or time spent in nature. Above all, he cherished family and the moments spent together. His curious mind, kind heart, and joyful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; four loving children, Roderic D. Schmidt (Magdalena), Kathryn (Dylan) Carroll, Sarah Schmidt (Scott Synnestvedt), Joseph Schmidt (Kelsey); seven cherished grandchildren, Evelyn, Liam, Wesley, Norah, Elizabeth, Samuel, Zachary; and brother, Theron Schmidt (Lorraine). He is predeceased by his sister, June Shuster.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that any donations be made to the Parkinson Voice Project or the St. Vincent DePaul Society at St. Mary’s Church in Barnegat. 

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 from 4 to 7 PM at Barnegat Funeral Home, 841 W. Bay Ave., Barnegat, NJ. Mass offered Wednesday, 10:00 AM followed by Military Honors at St. Mary's Church, Barnegat. Private Cremation to follow. (www.BarnegatFH.com) 

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