David L. Schmidt

David Lynn Schmidt died on March 29, 2024 in West Columbia, SC, after a long battle with chronic illness.

Born in Hastings on March 10, 1970, he lived here most of his life with a few brief stints elsewhere. He was a familiar face around town and friend of many. He loved sports, games, and collectibles. He was a lifelong bowler, spending hours on the lanes for fun and in league. Any who knew him of course knew he was an avid race fan; he was always coming or going from some place or another, driving all over the country dozens of times a year to see his favorites, discover new tracks, and share the thrill of the competition with the friends he had made along the way.

David worked hard to continue pursuing his passions as he struggled with diabetes and kidney disease. When his health had declined enough he chose to leave Nebraska and stay with his sister in South Carolina for support, enjoying comfort and renewed family connection in the difficult sunset of his life.

He found peace on his own terms shortly thereafter, passing the checkered flag at the age of 54. He has rejoined his parents, infant brother, and grandparents. He leaves behind his sister Deborah (Schmidt) Murphy of West Columbia, SC; his aunts Margene Stevens of Kearney and Jeannette Schmidt of Hastings; and numerous cousins and friends.

Please gather to share stories of remembrance on June 1, 2024 from 1-4 pm at Apfel Funeral Home in Hastings. Burial will follow at Rosemont Presbyterian Cemetery in Rosemont. Condolences can be left at www.apfelfuneralhome.com. Those wishing to honor his life can make a donation in his name to the Hastings Community Foundation, which will pass along this generosity to charities that are reflections of his courage.