Lee John Schmidt died on January 25, 2025, at Cape Coral Hospital in Florida after a long battle with alcohol addiction.  Although he departed this world too soon, he left his loved ones with memories to last several lifetimes.

He grew up in Watertown and graduated from high school in 2006.  He continued to live in Watertown until 2009 when he moved with his parents to Sioux Falls.  He also spent time living in Colorado, Mississippi, and finally, sunny Florida.

Lee was a really bright child but thought of rules as more of guidelines, so his curiosity sometimes got the better of him.  At a time when the inner workings of the internet were foreign to most people, he was able to hack into websites that most couldn't even find.  He had an incredible soft side that was apparent to those close to him.  Besides his family, he had many special interests that kept him busy including; cars, things that go fast, tinkering with all things, beating his Dad at pool and poker, and taking walks with his Mom.  Lee had a special fondness for cats, finding joy and comfort in their companionship. Above all, Lee adored his nieces and nephew, treasuring every moment spent with them.

Lee faced many challenges in his life, including a battle with addiction. Despite this struggle, he remained a kind and generous soul. His story is a testament to the complexities of life and the resilience of the human spirit. While addiction took Lee from us, it does not define who he was. He was more than his struggles – and in honor of Lee, we ask that you remember his life not for its challenges but for its beauty, joy, and love. His journey is a reminder to show compassion to others, to extend kindness even when it feels impossible, and to never stop supporting those who struggle.

Lee is survived by his father, Keith Schmidt; mother, Joni Hendrickson; sisters, Tasha (Brent) Landwehr and Meagan (Brent) Veeder; nieces and nephew, Marley, Jaycie, Jaxson, Sloane, Jenner, and Breckyn; and aunts, uncles, cousins, many loved ones and friends.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Tubby and Shirley Schmidt; maternal grandparents, Jimmy and Farol Hendrickson; uncle, Jon Hendrickson; cousins, Michael Pies and Jeremy Hendrickson; step mom, Donna Schmidt; and special feline companions, Tabby, Charlie, Callie and Cooper.

Rest easy, Lee. You are free now, and you are loved more than words can express.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in South Dakota. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to contribute in honor of Lee may donate to the Salvation Army at ( https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/ways-to-give/ ), BENCHS (Humane Society of Mankato, MN at https://benchs.org/donate/ ),or Emily's Hope ( https://emilyshope.charity/ ).