In Loving Memory of Brett Andrew Schmit

In Loving Memory of Brett Andrew Schmit
Born August 30, 1991 – Left us October 27, 2025

Brett Andrew Schmit [Schmitty], was born on August 30, 1991, in Regina, Saskatchewan – a big boy with an even bigger personality. From day one, Brett had presence; you always knew when he was in the room. He grew up in Regina and later moved to Edmonton, where he made his home for over a decade.

He could charm his way through just about any situation – a natural talker with the gift of the gab that definitely came from his mom’s side. Brett made friends easily, sometimes with people who made life interesting in the best and worst ways. He had the biggest smile – and he knew how to use it. He loved to laugh, be in the middle of whatever was going on, and had a way of pulling people together – whether they were part of his crew or just along for the ride, he made sure everyone felt included.

He cared about fashion, or maybe it’s better to say fads. From his “old man jammies” as a kid, to his jeans and dress shirts (the no sweats days), to his baseball and hockey uniforms, and later the “white boy gangsta” look in his teens – Brett always had his own style, and he owned it. Forever our “sharp-dressed man”.

Sports were a big part of Brett’s younger years. A left-handed pitcher, he traveled to baseball tournaments across Alberta and Saskatchewan. Hockey was a huge part of his life too – he spent countless hours in rinks, a big kid on the ice who made lifelong friends, shared laughs, and created memories that stuck with him forever.

When Brett’s great grandma passed away, “the boy” spent time with his great grandpa out at the farm. Those days meant the world to both of them – watching “Pimp My Ride” together, drinking Gatorade and frying up butter-soaked shrimp for supper. It was a special chapter in Brett’s life that he never forgot.

Brett and his mom were a team from the start. Both strong-willed, both protective, and both quick to have each other’s backs. Being the first child to a young mom and young grandparents meant Brett didn’t just grow up in the family – the family grew up with him.

Brett and his Auntie Shannon were kindred spirits from the start. They shared an unspoken understanding, a friendship built on laughter, secrets, and simple joys. She wasn’t just his auntie – she was his first friend. Their love for one another was special and grew stronger as they grew up together. He also shared a special bond with his Grams, one that was filled with love, occasional frustration, and mutual understanding – a connection that never faded. His Papa was quieter, a steady presence in the background, offering quiet support whether Brett noticed it or not. Brett and his Aunt Stephanie had a different kind of relationship. Since they were closer in age, they grew up with more of a sibling rivalry, bonding over eating Gram’s quiche on Tuesday nights.

Brett and Stacey were each other’s number one, growing up together, pushing each other, butting heads, and loving fiercely. Brett’s stepdad [Jason] came into his life as the father figure he needed – taking him fishing, on trips to Banff, playing sports, snowboarding, and introducing him to all of his passions.

In his adult years, Brett faced some tough battles, including addiction. We don’t want to pretend that part of his life didn’t exist because it was part of his story. But it’s not the whole story. He was so much more than his struggles – he was kind, funny, stubborn, charming, loving, and unforgettable. Brett also had lost friends along the way, some who faced the same struggles, and we take comfort in hoping they’re all somewhere better now – at peace, together, and laughing like they used to.

Brett will be deeply missed by his mom [Stacey], dad [Jason], his grandparents [Mike and Margaret], aunts, uncles, and family that were friends, and his friends that were like family, and everyone who was lucky enough to know him. He left us with a lot of stories, a lot of love, and a lot of laughs to remember.

In honour of Brett’s love for animals – especially his dogs – please consider making a donation to the Humane Society in his memory in lieu of flowers.

We’ll gather to celebrate Brett’s life when the time feels right. Updates will follow.