Darryl Wayne Schmidt, 73, of New Braunfels, TX passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 22, 2026. He was born on February 8, 1953, in New Braunfels to Leo and Marilyn (Vogel) Schmidt.

Darryl graduated from Canyon High School in 1971 where he played trumpet in the band. He worked as a volunteer fireman and New Braunfels Smokehouse for a short time before settling into a long-term role with the Porter Company. He met the love of his life Janie in November 1971 at the Crystal Chandelier, and they married in December 1973. In 1983 they were overjoyed to welcome their daughter Andrea to their lives. The couple shared a beautiful life of deep love and companionship until Janie’s death in March 2020.

Darryl and Janie spent their lives in New Braunfels as proud 5th generation community members. They enjoyed supporting their daughter’s and nieces’ school and sports activities at both New Braunfels and Canyon High Schools. When attending a football game between the Unicorns and the Cougars, Darryl always wore a bright, red shirt while sitting amongst a sea of blue in the Unicorn stands.

Darryl was delighted to become Opa to his treasured grandchildren Vivian, Joanna (JoJo) and Logan. He attended every birthday, school event and sporting event he could and bragged about them to whoever would listen. He had to quickly adapt to being a soccer fan for Vivian and Logan but was thrilled when JoJo chose to play volleyball. Two weeks before he passed he was so happy to be able to watch each one of their games one Saturday because they were all in New Braunfels without overlapping! Darryl also enjoyed instilling his love of coin collecting in Vivian and taking her to several area coin shows.

Darryl was a devoted member of First Protestant Church in New Braunfels where he faithfully served as usher and used his woodworking skills to make repairs to the church pews. Darryl lived out his faith through dedicated service to others, always lending a hand to a neighbor, relative or friend whenever asked.

Darryl was preceded in death by his beloved wife Shirley Jane (Welsch) Schmidt and his parents Leo J. and Marilyn June Schmidt.

He is survived and dearly missed by his daughter Andrea Vargas and spouse Ryan Vargas and his three grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Twyla Schroeder and spouse Bill as well as his beloved nieces. Furthermore, Darryl leaves behind several cherished neighbors who were like family and a circle of close friends with whom he spent his days.

Visitation will be at Doeppenschmidt Funeral Home on Thursday, November 5, 2026. The family will be present from 4:00 p.m. to 6 :00 p.m. The memorial service to honor both Darryl and Shirley Jane is at First Protestant Church on Friday, November 6, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. with graveside service immediately after at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. A reception will follow at Schumann Hall, First Protestant Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to First Protestant Church or Hope Hospice of New Braunfels.