Derek A. Schmidt

Derek Alan Schmidt, 55, of Topeka, passed away on February 3, 2026, at his home in Overbrook following a brief illness. He was born on September 20, 1970, at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the son of Frederick John and Mary Ann Burghart Schmidt. Derek was one of seven siblings.

He graduated from Topeka West High School and dedicated 31 years of service to Goodyear Tire and Rubber, working in Department 1320.

Derek will be remembered for his many passions and interests. He loved herping for reptiles and amphibians, a lifelong curiosity that brought him great joy. He was a devoted fan of Gilligan’s Island, a fond family tradition, and cheered faithfully for the Kansas City Royals. Derek made it a personal goal to hike every county in Kansas and enjoyed fishing, traveling, and spending time outdoors. Above all, he treasured time with his son Brett and cherished moments spent with family. Music was always close to his heart, with Neil Young, John Prine, and Tom Waits among his favorites.

On May 30, 2016, Derek married Patricia Ann Mowery. Together they shared a life filled with camping, hiking, riding four wheelers, exploring back roads, fishing often and enthusiastically, and caring for their English Bulldogs. They especially loved searching for turtles and snakes and simply enjoying each other’s company.

Derek was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Frederick Schmidt Jr.

He is survived by his wife Trish of Overbrook; his son Brett Schmidt and wife Tarah of Topeka; four brothers Kurt Schmidt of Topeka, Franz Schmidt and wife Barbara of Floresville, Texas, Karl Schmidt and wife Michelle of Anaconda, Montana, and Kyle Schmidt and wife Julie of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; one sister Heidi Schiefelbein and husband Mark of Topeka; sister in law Rose Schmidt; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Memorial visitation will be held from 9-10:30 A.M., with a rosary prayed at 10:30 A.M., on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 A.M., at the funeral home. A graveside service will take place at 1:30 P.M., on Monday, at Richland Cemetery, Richland, KS.

Memorial contributions may be made in Derek’s memory to the Kansas Herpetological Society. Contributions may be mailed or left with the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.