Paying tribute to Ava Rae Schmidt and her family

On the morning of December 21, 2022 the Schmidt family experienced a loss we all pray daily never happens, the loss of a child. Ava Rae was led to heaven after a very short fight with Influenza A and Strep B. She was only fourteen. A beautiful child navigating the sometimes cruel world of being a teenage girl. She was so thoughtful and was always looking for ways to show you she loved you. Whether it was a starbucks drink, an order of cheese curds or just a hug she wanted to find a way to put a smile on your face. She was a planner and had everything from her sixteenth birthday to her wedding day planned. She loved to dance and her dance family at Forever Dance. Recently telling her mom that she didn't want her to see her solo because she wanted it to be a surprise. The expectations she set for herself on school work earned her all A's. Her father shared that she had just received a 99% on a test but said she wanted to take it over so she could get a 100%. She was also involved in DECA. She loved being around animals; especially her dog Finley and lizard Pogue. She loved children and was always ready for the next babysitting job. Shopping and painting were just a couple of other things she loved to do. But where her heart spent most of its energy was on family. She adored her little sister, Gabby and was very close to both her mom, Katerina, and dad, Mike. She spent much time with her extended family and grandparents. Her cousins were amongst her closest friends.

Mike and Katerina do not know the costs they will be facing as they were as unprepared for this as any of us would be. They hope that they can pay any expenses and still have money to establish a couple of scholarships in Ava's name. They are overwhelmed with all of the love and support that has been shown to them and appreciate every person who has reached out or prayed for them. Any money you donate will go towards medical costs, funeral arrangements, meals and scholarships.

As information becomes available I will update all of you on the arrangements and link the obituary. Please visit www.malcorefuneralhome.com for more information as well. You never know when you may have gifts under the tree that stay unopened. As this weekend brings many of us together with family they hope you will take the time to hug each other closer, say things you may otherwise keep to yourself and enjoy every minute. Love to everyone.