BELFAST — Ralph “Sonny” Schmieder, 84, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many passed away unexpectedly on October 26.

He was born in Brooklyn, NY on May 7, 1935, to the late Mildred “Millie” Healy Schmieder and Ralph Schmieder.

Ralph served his country honorably in the United States Navy. He was a resident of Belfast, ME for the past 29 years, was a hardworking man who especially loved driving a school bus for special needs children. He was dedicated to his church and his faith.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Joanna Schmieder; his children, Diane Macke (Ted), Stephen Schmieder (Joanne), Paul Schmieder (Dawn), Susan Wittmer (Chuck) and Lara Schmieder; his step-daughter, Bea Desmond (Pete); and his grandchildren Paul, Kelly, Justin, Jessica, Nicholas, Nicholas, Nicole, Paul and Karina; sister Gloria Meyer; and his many nieces, nephews and cousins in Canada.

Sonny was predeceased by his brother (Edward Bubby Schmieder) and sister (Marion Szarjeko).

Visitation will be Friday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Avenue, Belfast, Maine 04915. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m., from St. Francis of Assisi Church, 81 Court Street, Belfast, ME 04915.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St. Francis of Assisi.

Arrangements are under the care of Riposta Funeral Home, Belfast.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.ripostafh.com.