Andrea Lea Schmidt

Andrea Lea Schmidt, age 78, passed away on May 12, 2024, at her home in Cleveland. Andrea was the cherished daughter of Jerome Norton and Arlene Ruth (nee Chamberlin) Schmidt, and the dear sister of Robert N. Schmidt. She was the treasured aunt of Robert K. Schmidt.  Born in Cleveland, Ohio on November 28, 1945, Andrea was a fourth generation Clevelander.

Professionally, Andrea dedicated herself to the noble vocation of nursing. She served tirelessly in OB/GYN and Pediatrics as a visiting nurse, touching countless lives with her care and compassion. Her impact extended beyond the confines of hospitals, as she served as the head of the student clinic at Cleveland State University, helping students with their healthcare issues.

She graduated from The Ohio State University in nursing and received MS and MBA degrees from Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing and Cleveland State University.  Andrea was certified as a nurse practitioner in both OB/GYN and Pediatrics.

Andrea's life was filled with joy and passion for various activities. She found solace and strength in her practice of tai chi, the camaraderie of her book club, the exercise and social network provided by volleyball and softball groups, the strategic challenges of mahjong, the tranquility of swimming and scuba diving, the beauty of gardening, and the creativity of art.  Her glass blowing provided many beautiful art pieces for her friends.

An active philanthropist, Andi supported scores of organizations, ranging from the Democratic party and candidates and causes, Jane Goodall, Audubon, veterans, farm workers, Greenpeace and various environmental organizations, dozens of medically related non-profits,and various indigenous peoples’ groups.  She participated in a caravan taking health care and supplies to Central America.

Andi’s favorite past-time was travel.  She spent winters in Belize and summers at Gull Lake Michigan.  Her latest great adventure was to the Eagle Festival in Mongolia.  Andrea has been around the world to Europe, China, Hong Kong, and went diving in places like Indonesia.

A private celebration of life will be held at the barn at the Dunham Tavern Museum on June 15 from 1-3 pm. To RSVP, please email her brother Bob Schmidt at rschmidt@CleveMed.com or call (216) 374-7237 for more information on the pot-luck lunch.

Please do not send flowers.  Please make a donation to your favorite charity or plant a tree for her.  You can order memorial trees in memory of Andrea Lea Schmidt.