Herman “Hank” Schmidt, 95, of Milford DE died Thursday, March 16,2017 at the Delaware Veterans Home. Hank was born in Brooklyn, NY, the son of Herman and Gertrude Schmidt. He attended the Jamaica Vocational High and following graduation, apprenticed as a printer. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hank enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and served in the Atlantic, escorting ships to Europe. Late in the war, he was transferred to the Pacific Theatre where he served transport duty, delivering men and supplies to the Philippines. At the end of WWII, Hank reenlisted in the Coast Guard and served in a wide range of capacities including Buoy Tenders, Ice Breakers, Search and Rescue missions and Lightships. His last tour of duty was as Commanding Officer of the Indian River Inlet. He retired in 1972 as Chief Warrant Officer 4th class with 30 years of service. While stationed at the Philadelphia Naval Yard, he met his future wife Ellen Narbey at the Chez Vous Dance Hall in Upper Darby. They were married June 12, 1948 and continued to dance together for the next 65 years. Hank was predeceased by his wife, Ellen in 2013 as well as by his brother Ed. He was a member and past president of the Milford Lions Club, a member of VFW Blue Hen Post #6483 and a member of the Retired Officers Association. He was also an avid gardener, fisherman, bowler and woodworker. Hank made friends wherever he went – with a big smile, a welcoming handshake and a story at the ready. He will be missed by all who knew him. 

A memorial service will be held at (time) on April 22, 2017 at the Senior Center, 111 Park Avenue, Milford DE. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963. Arrangements by Lofland Funeral Home, Milford, DE. Letters of condolence may be shared and sent to the family at www.loflandandmcknatt.com.

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