William Erich Schmidt

William Erich Schmidt, 85, of Norwich, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday (March 24, 2018) with loved ones at his side. Born Sept. 16, 1932 in New Britain and raised in Plainville, he was the son of the late Gottfried Wilhelm and Luise Anna (Heyne) Schmidt.

Bill served proudly with the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.  Following his honorable discharge in March of 1955, he went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree from UCONN in 1959.  After working for General Dynamics in Groton as a supervisor, he pursued his Master’s degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California and went on to work in data processing and computer programming until his retirement.

In his spare time, he was an avid sports fan and enjoyed fishing as well as his beloved pets. Bill leaves his loving companion and best friend of 40 years, Beverly Lecce; her daughter, Dr. D. Melissa Trigenis of Darien; her grandchildren; siblings, Jane Marsh of Plainville, Louise Johnson of Avon, Norma Francini of Unionville, George Schmidt of Southington and John Schmidt of Plymouth; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Annelise Lepore, late of Plainville.

A Chapel Service with military honors will be observed 6 PM Wednesday (March 28th) at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester; with visitation prior from 4 - 6 PM.  Burial will be private.

Donations in his memory may be made to the animal charity of one's choice.

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