On the beautiful sun-touched afternoon of March 26, 2016, Carol passed on to the next world at her home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer. Carol was 59 years old. Carol Schmidt was born in the town of Mendota in La Salle County, Illinois on November 2, 1956. She was the second daughter to Ira and Hirrel Schmidt and sister to Anita Schmidt.
She grew up in a white farmhouse on a corn and soybean farm outside of Earlville, Illinois. Her feisty and compassionate nature was developed as she rode her horses Thunder and Dolly, helped out on the farm, and participated in many school activities, such as cheerleading and yearbook. She even played volleyball, despite the fact that sports were not available to girls at this point, a fact that very much irked her.
After high school she began her education at the University of Iowa, where her dad would sometimes fly up on his plane to take her home for breaks. However, a spur of the moment train and bus ride to Missoula, MT after her second year of college brought her to the state where she would spend the rest of her life.
In Missoula, she enrolled in wildlife biology classes at the University of Montana and shared a classroom with the man who would ultimately become her husband, although she would tell you that she didn’t notice him, as she sat in the front of the class and he was in the back. After enjoying one year in Missoula, she moved to Ely, Minnesota where she worked at a wildlife biology lab alongside deer, bears, and wolves. This is the place where her husband laid eyes on her as a fawn suckled her earlobe and knew that he would spend the rest of his life with her. After working here for some time, she returned to Missoula to finish her wildlife biology degree.
Always on the move, Carol traveled down to South Carolina and worked at a marine biology lab. During her time here she also fought to improve the voting rights of black individuals who were discriminated against. Like every place she had lived in before and every place she has lived in since, she made many long and lasting friendships here.
Not content to be idle, she decided to pursue a law degree, but not before taking a nine-month trip cycling and backpacking through Europe with her boyfriend, Gerald McCarthy. After this time in tents, later to be replaced by the newly discovered and much improved bed and breakfasts, she enrolled at the University of Montana where she won national awards for her work. Following graduation and acceptance of her law degree, she married Gerald “Jerry” McCarthy in Missoula, MT on October 3, 1987.
She put her law degree to work by clerking for Justice Hunt in Helena, MT and later worked as a Special Assistant Attorney General for the State of Montana. In August of 1990 Carol and Jerry bought their home that would serve as their sanctuary and “work-in-progress” and in December of 1990 they welcomed their first daughter Morgan Schmidt McCarthy. Shortly after in February of 1995 they welcomed their second daughter Madison Schmidt McCarthy.
The following years were filled with many school activities, extracurricular activities, and family adventures. Carol was involved in every single aspect of her daughters’ lives, whether it was completing the middle school yearbook when no one else would, sewing historically accurate renditions for Halloween costumes, or editing school essays. Wanting to show her children the world, she orchestrated many family adventures around the US, to Europe, to Central America, and in their own backyard of Montana. She was her daughters’ greatest supporter and her impact on their lives is immeasurable.
However, her impact reached far beyond her family’s lives. Carol was a pillar of her community. She was heavily involved in the Helena School district, spending much of her time volunteering and fundraising. After her two daughters became involved in dance, she threw herself into the ballet world and fought to cultivate the ballet scene in Helena. Later in her law career she would transition to the Department of Environmental Quality where she worked to protect the public water supply. This job and her co-workers provided her immense joy.
Carol is preceded in death by her mother, Hirrel Schmidt, and her father, Ira Schmidt. Her spirit lives on through her husband Gerald McCarthy, her two daughters Madison and Morgan Schmidt McCarthy, her sister Anita Schmidt, and numerous other family members and friends.
The family would like to thank Dr. Weiner, who Carol called “Tom,” and the many other compassionate members of the St. Peter’s Cancer Treatment Center, who helped Carol and her family during this difficult time.
Carol will best be remembered by her light and love.
A memorial service will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 31st at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A celebration of her life will follow from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on the top floor of the Montana Club, 24 W. 6th Ave. Carol loved color, so please do not wear black to her service or celebration. Also, bring a written memory or picture to share at the service and there will be an opportunity to speak of your memories of Carol at the service. Please visit below to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Carol.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
2:00 p.m.
Thursday March 31, 2016
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Avenue
Helena , Montana 59602
Celebration of Her Life
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Thursday March 31, 2016
The Montana Club
24 W. 6th Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
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Margaret Woo says
Jerry, Morgan and Madison,
I am stunned by this news. I will always remember Carol by her positive spirit and attitude. I always enjoyed meeting with her, and meeting up with her at the Capitol on my many dog walks. I never saw her without a smile on her face. I am so sad for you.
Scott Miller says
Amazing dance moms, awesome dance dads, and memories. Peace.
Pamela Campbell Gast says
I am so sorry to hear this news. Carol was a good friend of mine when we were in high school. She was such a genuinely nice person and a gentle soul. Deepest sympathy to the family.
Teresa Sturm says
Carol never spoke of what she was going through while I worked with her at DEQ but I could tell she was in pain. I never knew Carol the way I would have liked to as I mostly just saw her in passing the halls at work. She didn’t have to utter many words for a person to tell that she was a beautiful person both inside and out. Was in meetings with her a few times and it was a very obvious that she was a wise woman who knew a lot about everything and was quick to offer a solution. I felt so bad when I saw her picture and a write up in the obituaries. My first thought was Oh no Carol, what happened to you. Such a sweet, remarkable woman doesn’t deserve what you had to go through at such a young age. Cancer is a terrible disease that doesn’t have boundaries, doesn’t come with warnings and unfortunately hits people despite their age, race, and character. To her family: You lost a beautiful mom, spouse or sister who truly was an inspiration to all who crossed her path. Know that she is in a better place, free from pain. I am so very sorry for your loss. God Bless!
Bonnie Flesch says
To Jerry, Morgan and Madison ~~ my heartfelt sympathies. Carol became a good friend at the AG’s office and we all were involved (vicariously) in the girls ballet and activities. Carol – you had beautiful, talented daughters and you and Jerry, through your travels and dance, gave Jerry and your girls such beautiful memories to remember you by. You were a loving wife and a wonderful Mom. And a good friend. After I moved to Conrad you sent me Christmas letters each year; this last one asked for prayers as your cancer had came back; I prayed. Now I will pray for your grieving family. Carol – Please know I loved you and will miss you. May God Bless your memory.
Kristi Ponozzo says
Gerry, Morgan and Madison – I will always hold great memories of carol in my heart. I don’t go back decades and decades like many of the people who know and love her, but she has been a great work-mate and friend of mine for the past 5 years.
I already, and will continue to, miss her presence in the office. She was always a smart-witted confidant with stories to tell and wisdom to bestow. I loved hearing her stories about her family. She loved you guys more than anything and always had memories and current tales to share about Madison’s ballet experiences and Morgan’s medical school endeavors.
She gave great advice. She was a seasoned and amazing mother, and I always leaned on her guidance when I was wresting with some parenting decision.
She raised amazing daughters. I once told her that I couldn’t imagine anyone being a bigger hit with my kids than Madison was when she started babysitting Owen and Alice. Owen and Alice, to this day, idolize Madison and the kindness and love she showed them.
We’re all better for having Carol in our lives. Thank you for sharing her with me and everyone else. We are so sorry for your loss. Our family has been thinking of you for a while now and we will continue to send loving and healing thoughts your way. Please let us know if you need anything at all.
-Love Kristi, Thad, Owen and Alice
Susan Sedlbauer says
Carol was a dear friend and classmate of mine. We grew up together in Earlville, Illinois. I last saw her and you, Gerry, at our 40th class reunion in Earlville. She was the kind of person you might only see every 10 years at the reunion but it seemed as is no time had passed….as if we picked up where we had left off previously. We shared many great times growing up. It was always an adventure to spend time at the farm! Horses, airplane, a runway in the middle of a corn field, the shuffleboard court….and purple shag carpeting in her bedroom! She was a kind and sweet friend…one I wished I could have seen more often in later years. I am extremely sad to hear of her passing. Love, Sue (Matison) Sedlbauer
Robyn bomstad says
Corol was a great high school friend we had many great laughs. She was always smiling . So many great memories I was very lucky to have her as a friend.
So sad to hear about her passing.
I attended her moms birthday party in Mendota and got to see Morgan dance it was lovely just like carol
June Klatt Novak says
We were friends and neighbors of the Schmidt family in Earlville, Il. for many years. Carol,s mom, Hirrel Schmidt was my husbands typing teacher in Mendota, Il. High school before she married.
Anita, you and Carol,s family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandy Dutler says
I am so terribly sorry to hear of Carol’s passing. It came as quite a shock as I had no idea that she had been ill. I had gone to high school with Carol in Earlville. She was so intelligent, such a sweetheart, so much fun to be around and would do anything to help out another person. I had not seen Carol in years and had the opportunity to meet up with her again at our 40 year class reunion. It was wonderful to see her and to meet Jerry. I was really happy that her life had turned out so well and her future was full of plans which included going to Hawaii. After reading the beautiful memoriam and all that Carol accomplished in her life I know that her daughters and husband are so proud of her and are missing her so much. My sincere sympathies and prayers and blessings are sent to you all and to Anita. With much love, Sandy Dutler
Donna Trost says
I went to Grade School and High School with Carol in Earlville, Illinois. We spent a lot of time together doing after school activities especially cheerleading. Carol was always a free spirit and wasn’t afraid to venture out. She always made the effort to keep in touch with everyone and share her awesome stories about her girls and her family. Jerry, you and the girls are in my prayers. Donna Locke Trost
Becky J Atherton says
I have known Carol and her family thru out her school years at Earlville, especially High School. Our families enjoyed many a weekend boating at Lake Holiday and Illinois River. Our Mom’s spent countless hours sewing cheerleading outfits for us or baking for the fundraising bake sales. Carol was always involved in school and extracurricular activities,
always with a positive attitude and a willing hand. After high school, she moved on from the Earlville community, Her Mom was so proud of the accomplishments her girls made and talked of them often. Hirrel, my mom, and I took ceramic classes together each week and Hirrel would fill us in on their latest endeavors. Carol was so involved in her girls activities, I always enjoyed her Christmas letters telling of their adventures the past year. We have lost a great friend way too soon……..
My prayers and sympathies to jerry, Madison and Morgan, and my best friend, Anita.
Kathy Springmeyer says
Dear Jerry, Morgan and Madison, We were so sorry to read of Carole’s passing in today’s paper. We didn’t know she was dealing with her cancer issues again. Knowing her through school and a mom…she was always a wonderful, bright, cheerful person. Always a smile in her voice. She was such an awesome person, we always enjoyed her wonderful spirit…We are so sorry for your loss, and pain you must all feel. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family. Steve and Kathy Springmeyer
Pat Hunt says
Jerry, Morgan and Madison,
I am so sorry for your loss. Carol was a very special woman whose love for all of you showed when she talked about you. The last time I saw her, she caught me up on each one of you and it was obvious how much she loved you and how proud she was of you. My heart is with you.
Jody Hurd says
Jerry, Morgan and Madison,
I am so sorry for what you are going through. I remember how nervous Jerry would get when Carole would get her yearly? test for the return of the disease. I know how broken-hearted you all are. Jerry, you always showed how much you loved your girl – your love and pride were always obvious.
When Carole and I talked when I visited, she spoke mostly of her pride for you girls. You gave her so much joy.
I am so sad for you all.
Leslie Wiggins says
Anita I am sorry for the loss of your sister, Like you she sounds like she was a beautiful person. I am praying for you and your family.
Leslie
Nancy Whitlock Henegar says
I am so sorry to hear this news. Carol was a good friend of my sister so she spent many hours at our house and I was even lucky enough to tag along out to her house. I remember sitting out in the kitchen waiting to spend time out with the horses! My deepest sympathies to her family.
Sonja Reid says
Anita, I am praying Gods gives you strength. You and your family are in our thoughts. Sonja
Angelyn McCrory says
Anita,
Sorry to hear about your sister. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Angelyn McCrory
Sandy Wardell says
Jerry, Morgan and Madison,
Carol’s joy and love of life touched so many people. Her spirit carries on in her two outstanding daughters, Morgan and Madison, who are a reflection of the wonderful close-knit family Carol nurtured . Peace to all who loved her.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital - Sr. Regional Dev. Rep. says
To Madison & Family,
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital send our love and support to your family. Thank you for your courage, commitment, and contributions during such a difficult time.
With love, NY Staff
Andree Larose says
Jerry, Morgan and Madison,
I was so saddened to read of Carol’s passing. She was such a positive and gentle person, but with a core strength and determination that signaled not to mess with her! That core strength and passion enabled her to accomplish so much, including being such an active, nurturing and supportive mother. My heart goes out to your whole family. May her spirit and love always be with you.
Deb Weygand says
Carol and I go way back to grade school days.
I was at the Schmidt home as much as my own, Carol and her family taught me how to ride and care for horses, how to water ski, and enjoy boating.
I was able to enjoy a lot of things with her and her family that I would have never done without her friendship.
I was so happy to see her marry the man of her dreams, and have two beautiful daughters.
Time goes by so fast and we didn’t see much of one another, but every Christmas, Carol sent a beautiful Christmas letter ( maybe a little late but it always came) filled with all the wonderful things that she and her family had done all year long and how very proud she was of Madison and Morgan.
I feel I am a better person for having Carol in my life, I will miss her deeply.
Jerry, Madison, Morgan, and Anita I am so sorry for your loss.
Sending Prayers.
R.I.P. My Dear Friend
Lee Holmes says
I was shocked with this news. Having been close to Carol’s first battle with cancer I must approach this sadness with some level of gratitude that she was allowed the beauty of a family of two wonder girls. My heart aches with this loss for you three and all of us, but also gratitude for what Carol gave to all of us. May Heavenly Father’s comforting spirit be with you as are my thoughts and prayers
Heather Miller says
Anita and Family, May you find strength in one another and celebrate the precious time you shared with Carol. Much love and many prayers.
Heather Miller and Family
Maxine Benedict says
She gave us Abby
Carol’s daughter found a starving, freezing cat on the side of the road and brought her home. After some time at the vet, she gave us the cat and we named her Abby. She was with us for just over four wonderful years and added tremendously to our family. We always remember Carol and Abby when we think of either one.
Bonnie Lovelace says
Jerry, Madison and Morgan: If you knew how many times Carol and I spoke of you, you would be amazed at the pride and love she showed. Carol, Elois Johnson and I were all born the same year and teased about aging together. Our sense of loss now is tremendous. Carol always had words of wisdom and christian charity to share during troubling times. The one thing I will always cherish is her advice about forgiveness. Carol knew that not forgiving a wrong only harmed the person with something to forgive. She knew that no matter how undeserving a person was of forgiveness, it should be given as a gift. Such wisdom and charitability were genuine gifts that Carol had and shared often. I will miss her terribly. I will miss her smile, I will miss her light.
Margy Kernan says
Dear Jerry, Morgan and Madison,
My heart aches for you all, and I am so very sorry your beloved Carol, wife and mom, has passed on. Carol always made Erinleigh feel so very welcome when she would come for dinner and a movie with Morgan. And Carol shared her tender love for her cats with Erinleigh who became very fond of them when she would go up to your house to care for them. Words are inadequate at this time, but know that my thoughts and my prayers are with you now and will be in the days and months ahead. I believe that Carol’s love and spirit will continue to light your way and warm your lives for always.
My love and peace,
Margy Kernan
Linda Trueb says
Jerry, Morgan & Madison,
We were so shocked and saddened to learn of Carol’s passing. Carol was such a special lady. She loved the three of you more than words can even describe. I remember fondly attending many ballets with Carol, and having the best seats in the house with our two little girls watching in awe, as both Morgan and Madison danced so beautifully. Your mom was sooooooo very proud of both you girls, as well as of your active involvement and support in their ballets, Jerry. Carol was always so supportive, caring and helpful in all your activities, with many late nights and long days I knew spent working behind the scenes whether sewing costumes, editing papers, or helping with school yearbook and other projects. Hardwork, thoughtfulness and active love and care were her trademarks. Carol extended that thoughtfulness to our girls as well, with many special little gifts during their early years. One of the special ornaments they each put up every year from their Christmas boxes is a glass angel she gave them, on which she wrote their names in permanent marker. They cherish their angels, which will continue to remind us each year of Carol and her beauty both inside and out.
I will cherish the many fond memories I have from our days shared clerking for the Montana Supreme Court. That was when I really got to know Carol, and we fast became friends. Although she clerked for Justice Hunt and I clerked for Justice Gulbrandson, who often were on different sides of an opinion, Carol always was willing to offer assistance and help in my early days up at the Court when all the work and procedures were so new to me. She had a year’s experience by then, and her help was invaluable. I came to think of her as the great editor of the Court. She often continued to edit her work right up to a deadline, because she knew and believed that editing was a critical step that could always make a writing better. I know she continued with that practice with the work you girls did, offering to help make your work even better with editing insights. I do the same with my girls’ work now that they are in high school! 🙂 That is a legacy you will continue to have from your mom throughout your lives. Every time you get ready to submit a paper, and make one final edit, you will think of your mom. Because she was such a good writer, your family Christmas letters have always been a joy to read. I always appreciated her keeping us informed of your family activities through the years, even after we had moved so far from Helena. Morgan and Madison, I hope you keep that Christmas tradition alive. Your mom was so proud of your medical studies and research, Morgan, and of your dance career, Madison. Continue to strive to be the best you can be at whatever you choose to do in life, because that is the example Carol set for you and strived for in all her different avenues of life…whether biologist, lawyer, wife, mother, naturalist or friend. Our family will be with you in thought and prayer today during Carol’s memorial even though we are in Alaska now and far apart in miles. Continue to make your mom proud, girls. Her strong, gentle love will always be with you and help you through the most difficult of times.
I will miss you Carol, but am glad for the time we did have here as friends. In honor of you, I edited up until the last minute. Goodbye my friend. You will remain in my heart and thoughts.
Bill & Helen Dunbar says
Jerry, Morgan and Madison- So sorry to hear of Carole’s passing. always enjoyed the Christmas Eves with all of you at Maureen’s. Love and Prayers
Andrei and Annette Shkurigin says
Jerry, Morgan and Madison
Please except our condolences and may our prayers help comfort you.