October 12, 2024, marked the fourth annual anniversary of the passing of Dr. Ron Schmidt. The world of food science and human nutrition lost a remarkable figure with the passing of University of Florida Professor Emeritus Dr. Ronald H. Schmidt on October 12, 2020. At the age of 77, Dr. Schmidt left behind a legacy that is as diverse as it is profound.
Ron was as special kind of man, husband, father, grandfather, teacher, mentor, and musician, all with a special type of humor. Over the years, I was amazed that not only did he know so much about so many food sectors, but he was so willing to share and teach. If he didn’t know the answer he would help search for it. Soon after I graduated from UF, Ron took over as the extension person. He had tough shoes to fill - Dr. Ron Richter and Dr. Bronson Lane were his predecessors. From the moment he took over the position, he was there for all of us no matter where our careers took us. Mine has evolved through the dairy industry, juice industry and so much more. Ron was no further than an email or a phone call away to assist with questions and projects.
In retirement, Ron remained active, judging cheese and ice cream competitions and serving on the boards of national organizations. His love for ice cream was well-known, as was his role as a good friend, colleague, and mentor. Ron also joined our team here at D.L. Newslow & Associates, Inc. He traveled all over the country teaching and assisting with HACCP programs and eventually with FSMA projects. Everyone loved him – he brought his guitar to many of the classes. I always remember in one of our Advanced HACCP classes – the group was having trouble remembering the 12 steps of HACCP in order. So that evening Ron wrote a song to the 12 days of Christmas – everyone took a step – it was fantastic – and it worked. I remember his goofy jokes like “Sammy Davis Jr. married Ella Fitzgerald and named their kid Samenella” There were so many. He so enjoyed teaching, and everyone so enjoyed Dr. Ron.
Ron was dedicated to his special professional organizations such as IAFP, IFT and his beloved 3A. It was great to see that 3A has a scholarship (Dr. Ron Schmidt Student Travel Award) for students in Ron’s name to allow them to become familiar with this program. I have had several opportunities to speak at various professional meetings, a mention of Ron is almost always included in my comments or references. Afterwards, individuals mostly grad students or others that knew Ron come to me to say hi and share Ron stories. Hardly a day goes by that we at D.L. Newslow & Associates, Inc., don’t have a question for Ron, whether he is in our thoughts, or we share a story of our times with him. When we teach our HACCP classes, I try to tell his jokes, but it is not the same. When I decided to do this in memory of Ron, I thought it would not be difficult to write, but I honestly thought what more can I say other than his friendship, knowledge, teamwork, and humor is missed.
As we think about Ron on this anniversary of him moving to the next horizon, let us share a little about the man known as Dr. Ron Schmidt. He was born into the hardworking life of a dairy farm in Meeker County, Minnesota, He learned the values of diligence and dedication early on. His formative years were enriched by his involvement in clubs like 4-H and FFA, which sowed the seeds for his future endeavors. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Minnesota, where he earned his advanced degrees before serving as an officer with the US Public Health Service.
For nearly four decades, Dr. Schmidt's career at the University of Florida's Food Science and Human Nutrition Department was marked by his passion for teaching and mentoring. His impact on students went beyond the classroom; he was a friend and a guide, staying in touch with many long after their graduation.
Ron's expertise in food safety and sanitary design was recognized internationally. He traveled the globe, sharing his knowledge through speaking, training, and consulting. Yet, his accomplishments in academia were matched by his talents outside of it. A man of many interests, Ron was a craftsman who loved working with his hands, whether it was building or fixing projects.
Ron’s wonderful wife Gail shared a few pictures. Great memories. We would like to think that Ron is enjoying himself; telling jokes and of course playing and singing in Rock and Roll heaven.
The sentiments shared over the years by his friends, reflect the warmth and kindness Ron exuded. He was the kind of person who made the world a better place, one thoughtful joke or kind gesture at a time.
His gentle nature and easygoing demeanor were complemented by a dry wit and a readiness to share a joke—or ten. Ron had a love for life's simple pleasures: roses, crossword puzzles, sports, dancing, and music. His musical passion led him to perform locally with his accordion and guitar, bringing joy to those around him.
As we remember Dr. Ronald H. Schmidt, we are reminded of the indelible mark he left on his field and the lives of those he touched. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, and he will continue to be dearly missed. Rest in peace, Ron. Your memory lives on in the hearts of many.
We invite you to share your experiences and stories about Dr. Ron Schmidt. Please leave your comments in the section below.
Thanks Debby for a wonderful tribute to Dr. Ron Schmidt. I have so many fond memories of being a student under Dr. Schmidt. He was an incredible professor and mentor and we stayed in touch after graduation as he would often call and visit with me and my colleagues in Jacksonville. As a student, I took many classes under Dr. Schmidt. One memory was that he would never hesitate to meet me very early in the morning at the Krystal near campus for breakfast to further explain concepts. I would in turn gather with other students in my class to pass on the new learning. One mnemonic he taught the class in our efforts to remember the essential a…