MARCH 20, 1956 – APRIL 28, 2021
Mary Schmidt died peacefully with family by her side April 28, 2021, in Longmont, Colorado. A longtime resident of Boulder, Colorado, she was 65.
Born March 20, 1956, to Suzie and John Hudziak and raised in Peru, Illinois, Mary was the eldest of five siblings. Before moving to Colorado to raise her son, Eric, Mary lived in San Francisco, California, where she worked as a paralegal.
Her remarkable nature, admired by all who were lucky to know her, found it’s true place and purpose at The Family Learning Center (FLC) — the Boulder-based nonprofit organization where she dedicated more than 25 years as business manager. In this role, her heart and mind could work in accord to benefit the greater good. Mary worked tirelessly and gave generously. Though she preferred to fly under the radar with the selfless support given to all those around her, her endless kindness will live on.
Those who worked with her appreciated Mary for being the heart of the FLC’s daily life and someone who made the hard work fun, kept the wheels turning, and had an impact on the lives of so many in the San Juan Del Centro and Boulder community. Colleagues and friends will also remember Mary for her bright smile and beautiful eyes, and her vibrant and fabulous personality — attributes that also apply to her bohemian chic style, complete with statement jewelry, long flowing hair and signature fingernails, always done the nines.
The holidays were Mary’s domain. She had a knack for always selecting the kind of gifts you never knew you wanted and then couldn’t live without, taking joy in making sure everyone received at least one — even pets didn’t leave the party empty-pawed. Every gift was wrapped with a personal flair, and that artistry extended into her immaculate handwriting, makeup, small garden and floral arrangements.
Mary is survived by her son, Eric Schmidt and wife Heather Fried, mother, Suzie Hudziak, sister, Sarah and husband Bruce Bernau, brother, Jim and wife Teresa Hudziak, sister, Ann and husband Mark Kessel, dear friend, Clay Beckham, aunt, Judy Grimler, nieces and nephews: Brady, Tessa and Addy Bernau, Jake Bernau, Vicenta Hudziak, Sam Hudziak, Maddie Hudziak, Emma Hudziak, Amber Kessel, Ben Kessel, and dog, Simon. She was preceded in death by her brother, Tony Hudziak, father, John Hudziak, and several beloved aunts, uncles and grandparents.
A private family service will be held in late-May, and details for a public memorial, once larger group gatherings are safe, to follow. Memorial contributions can be made to The Family Learning Center in her name at https://flcboulder.org/give-a-remembrance-gift/.
