Janine Schmidt, 70, of St. Joseph, MI passed away Monday, January 6, 2025 at Caretel Inns St. Joseph.
Janine was born March 7, 1954 in Benton Harbor, MI to Clifford & Jeannette (Jetzke) Totzke Sr. She graduated from Bridgman High School in 1972 and continued her education at Western Michigan University where she received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1976 and later received her master’s degree. On June 24, 1978 she married Peter Schmidt in Bridgman, Michigan. Janine was an elementary school teacher at Three Oaks Elementary School for over 30 years. During her time as a teacher, she left a lasting impact on all of her students. Janine was a selfless and caring person who dedicated her life to helping and serving others. She loved spending time with family and friends, being outdoors and watching baseball, especially the Chicago Cubs.
Janine is survived by her husband Peter Schmidt; son William Schmidt; sister Isla Case; sister-in-law Julie Totzke; brother-in-law Manfred (Val) Schmidt; many nieces and nephews, and two close friends Susan Kading and Suzanne Malm.
Janine was preceded in death by her father Clifford Totzke Sr.; mother Jeannette Gaul; stepfather August “Sam” Gaul; brother Clifford Totzke Jr.; and sister-in-law Hildegard Schmidt Larragoiti.
A Memorial Service for Janine will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 9650 Church St., Bridgman, MI 49106 or to Caring Circle Hospice, 4025 Health Park Ln., St. Joseph, MI 49085. Arrangements are entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Those wishing to share a memory of Janine online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com
Posted On: Wednesday, January 8, 2025 3:17 PM
