December7, 1940 – September 10, 2026

Vivian Ann Schmit (Taylor) was born on December 7, 1940, as the only daughter of Herbert and Laura Taylor.  She grew up on a farm outside of the small town of New Virginia, Iowa with three brothers – Irvin, Herb, and Bob.  Vivian graduated from the New Virginia High School on May 18, 1960 as part of a senior class of 21 students.

Following her graduation, Vivian moved to Des Moines, Iowa where in 1963 she met Jerome Schmit at a local dance. On May 22nd, 1965 they wed at the All Saints Catholic Church in Des Moines and began their lives together.

For Vivian, family was the most important thing in her life. She worked the night shift in plastics factories for years to help make ends meet, and still had time to enrich her family’s lives every day. She helped create a home that was one of those places that always seemed to have guests stay over, where everyone was welcome, and you felt embraced just by walking through the front door.  At her house you never left hungry, and you were always welcome to stay for one more game of cards.

Vivian enjoyed traveling together with her husband Jerry, and they enjoyed going all over the United States. More often than not, the trips included a stop at a casino or a local live show. Likewise, Vivian loved spending time on the family boat, catching – but not eating – the fish she pulled in. At home she enjoyed cooking, raising flowers, and watching the birds in her yard, especially Cardinals. Above all Vivian took joy watching her grandchildren – Samantha, Alex, Max, Allie, and Emma – grow up. They always put a smile on her face.

Vivian died September 10th, 2026 at the age of 85 in the company of her family and friends.

Vivian is survived by her husband Jerry Schmit, daughter Laura Schmit; son David Schmit, his wife Åsa and their children Alex and Emma; son Jeffrey Schmit, his wife Kim and their children Samantha, Max and Allie. Beyond her immediate family, she leaves behind many relatives and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Vivian Ann Schmit will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo. Father Austin Barnes will be the Celebrant.  Readers for the Mass will be Harvey Schmit-brother-in-law and Richard Taylor-nephew.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 15 from 9:30 A.M. until time of Mass at 11:00 A.M. AT THE CHURCH.

Private inurnment St. Francis Cemetery.

Casket Bearers will be the grandchildren-Samantha Russell, Alex Schmit, Maxwell Schmit, Allie Schmit and Emma Schmit.

The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo is serving the family.    Online condolences may be made to www.thepetersonchapel.com