Michael Mead Schmitt, 59, husband of Paula Lances Schmitt of Danbury, died peacefully in his home December 4, with his family at his side. Born March 9, 1955, in Stamford, he was the son of the late Michael Carl and Ann Mead Schmitt of Wilton. He was also the grandson of the late, local artist Carl Schmitt and wife, Gertrude, of Silvermine, and the Honorable Stanley P. Mead and Esther Mead of New Canaan.

In addition to his wife, two brothers, Christopher Schmitt, and his wife Kimberly Mithun Schmitt, of Newtown and Matthew Schmitt, and his wife Susan, of Wilton; his sister Ann Schmitt, and her husband Stephen Morley, of Georgetown; and five nephews survive Mr Schmitt.

He had a varied career, from vice president in banking in the 1980s to working in the specialty gas industry, performing installations and deliveries, to ultimately coming to work for Airgas in Greenwich for the last 15-plus years.

Mr Schmitt will be fondly remembered by all who knew him for his keen intelligence, dry sense of humor, kind heart, and unfailing generosity.

A memorial party for Mr Schmitt will take place January 17, from 1 to 5 pm, at the Miry Brook Firehouse in Danbury. In lieu of flowers, donations to the following organizations would be appreciated: Trout Unlimited, at www.tu.org; Guiding Eyes for the Blind at www.guidingeyes.org; or the Humane Society at www.humanesociety.org.

Arrangements are in the care of Collins Funeral Home, Norwalk. Visit www.collinsfh.com to leave condolences.