Harold J. Schmidt

Known as Mr. Baden, Harold J. Schmidt gave of his talent, time and resources through many different aspects of community life. Contributing to his community, as a church leader, local historian, politician, member of many committees, and a businessman, Schmidt had time for everyone. Much of Schmidt’s charity went unrecorded; approached by many over the years for assistance, he gave generously and without record.

In the late 1950s, Schmidt served a growing rural population as first secretary-treasurer of the Baden School Board and the Waterloo-Oxford High School Board. He was secretary-treasurer of the Wilmot Municipal Telephone System and led its conversion to rotary dial service. From 1973 to 1997, Schmidt was elected Councillor to Wilmot Township Council and he was a strong advocate of the Township’s decision to purchase and restore Castle Kilbride as a museum. He called his part in the museum project “his proudest achievement.” He was also a member of the Baden Chamber of Commerce and the Baden Park Board.

Remembering the assistance of his church in times of need, Schmidt became involved in charitable organizations connected with his Mennonite faith. He served as secretary-treasurer of the Mennonite Aid Union for more than fifty years. He was cofounder of the Mennonite Benefit Association and he served the Mennonite Relief Sale in New Hamburg.

Schmidt was honoured with the Ontario Volunteer Service Award and was named Wilmot Township Citizen of the Year in 2000.