John W. "Jack" Schmidt, 70, of Ledyard died at Smilow Cancer Hospital, Jan. 24, 2021, after a battle with Acute Leukemia.

Prior to his retirement, Jack worked as an engineer for Electric Boat in Groton for 20 years.

He was the beloved husband to Christine Schmidt of Ledyard. She and four sad pets survive him.

Besides his wife, Christine, he is survived by sister-in-law Lydia DelGrosso and her children Luke, Evan, and Olivia DelGrosso, all of Ledyard, who are heartbroken at the loss of their favorite, doting Uncle Jack.

Anyone who met Jack knew he was a terribly kind and gentle man. His retirement life was filled with work at the Connecticut Humane Society where he sometimes volunteered four days a week as a photographer, dog walker, and cat cuddler. He loved taking the photos, working with the staff and enjoying the animals. In addition, Jack delivered food and water to the New London Community Meal Center twice a week for many years. Jack filled his retirement years with warmth and kindness exemplifying what it means to live a good life of service.