In Memory Of
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Harlan David Schmitz
St. Benedict, Kansas
12/26/1966 - 04/05/2026
Harlan David Schmitz, 59, passed away Sunday, April 5, 2026, at his home north of St. Benedict.
He was born December 26, 1966, in Seneca, Kansas, the son of Stanley and Mary Alice (Niekamp) Schmitz of Seneca.
Harlan grew up on the family farm north of St. Benedict, where he worked alongside his father throughout his school years. He graduated from B&B USD 451 High School in 1985. Following graduation, he worked for Roger Burr Construction for several years before taking a position at Henry Brothers Implement, where he worked in the parts department and repaired farm tires for area farmers. He later worked for Seneca Ready Mix for five years until his passion for farming called him back full-time. When his father retired, Harlan took over the farming operation and continued running the farm until his sudden passing. Ever dedicated, he had already made plans for the upcoming planting season.
Harlan was known for his strong work ethic and his ever-present smile. Family meant everything to him, and he especially cherished time spent at family gatherings and holidays. In his free time, he enjoyed watching sports, particularly cheering on the Royals, Chiefs, and K-State Wildcats, often sharing those moments with family and friends.
During the winter months, Harlan loved traveling to South Padre Island, Texas, where he enjoyed the sunshine, friendships, and relaxed pace of beach life. He treasured those winters filled with laughter and companionship. In recent years, declining health prevented him from making those trips.
Harlan was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict and Knights of Columbus Council 1769 in Seneca.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Kimberly Barnhart, on October 22, 2023.
Survivors include his parents, Stanley and Mary Alice Schmitz of Seneca; his brother, LeRoy (Julie) Schmitz of Seneca; his sister, Deann (Terry) Tiede of Manhattan; his niece, Hannah Barnhart; his nephews, Cody Barnhart and Tyler Tiede and his friend, Trinity Abril; as well as his step-nephew, Cody (Hannah) Scott; step-niece, Caitlyn Scott; and great step-nephew, Kyler Scott.
A rosary will be prayed at 10:00 A.M. on Friday, April 10, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Benedict, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Memorials in Harlan’s memory will be designated at a later date and may be sent in care of the family.
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Condolences
Oh Stanley and Mary Alice I am so sorry sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love you both
Mary Alice, DeAnn and families, I was so sorry to hear the news. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dona –
Thank you for your condolences. We appreciate it.
Hope you and your family are doing well.
Deann
Sorry for your loss and hope better days ahead Daniel and Lori Broxterman
Sorry for your loss and hope better days ahead
Stanley, Mary Alice and family,
We were so shocked to hear of Harlan’s passing. Our sincere condolences to your family. May you find comfort in your memories of Harlan.
Stanley, Mary Alice, Deann, LeRoy and family. I was greatly saddened to hear of Harlan’s passing. Even though it was a ways back nothing but great memories with Harlan. I hadn’t talked to him in years but will always remember that laugh his easy going way and many many good times. Very sorry for your loss.
I am so very sorry to hear about the loss of Harlan. Sending my deepest condolences to Stanley, Mary Alice, Leroy & Deann, and to all the rest of the family and friends. God bless.