James Edward Schmedding

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James Edward "Jim" Schmedding, a man whose life was as vibrant as the Hawaiian print shirts he loved to wear, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025, at the age of 79, surrounded by his devoted family in Logan, Utah.

Born on February 10, 1946, in San Diego, California, to Joseph Schmedding and Cleo Ellen Smiley, Jim's early years were a tapestry of sun-soaked days spent surfing the Pacific waves from La Jolla to Santa Cruz, grooving to Motown music, and finding his passion in the game of football.

An alumnus of Granada Hills High, Jim’s football prowess led him to Weber State University, where he earned Associated Press First Team All-America honors as an offensive guard in 1967 and was a two-time All-Big Sky Conference first-team selectee. His exceptional contributions to the sport were later recognized with his induction into the Weber State University Hall of Fame in 1993. However, it was at Weber State that Jim found his greatest treasure—his beloved wife, Kathy. The two were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple, embarking on a 57-year journey together.

Jim's athletic talents opened the door to a professional football career with the San Diego Chargers from 1968 to 1970. Following his time on the field, he channeled his determination into the real estate industry. Starting in residential sales and then site acquisition for Chart House Restaurants, Jim eventually established his own firm, becoming a respected commercial real estate broker in San Diego for over four decades. His integrity and unwavering commitment to his clients set him apart in the industry.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jim's heart was deeply rooted in community service. He founded the non-profit American Youth Sports Foundation, creating avenues for young athletes to develop teamwork and discipline. Together with Kathy, he organized flag-football and roller hockey leagues and camps, owned and ran Valley Baseball batting cages, and lent his abilities as a volunteer football coach at the local Junior High and High Schools. Jim was an early supporter of the San Dieguito Boys & Girls Club, and a Board member of Torrey Pines Athletic Boosters and the NFL Alumni.

A man of profound faith, Jim served in various capacities within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Stake Young Men’s President, Temple Ordinance Worker, Service Missionary and Seminary Teacher. He served as both a Branch President and Bishop for the Young Single Adults ward, where he became known for the line of young individuals seeking his counsel outside his office on Sundays—Jim’s compassionate guidance left an indelible mark on countless lives.

In his later years, Jim's creative spirit flourished through his passion for photography. With a discerning eye, he captured the world's splendor, earning local and regional accolades for his vivid coastal sunsets, striking architectural shots, and scenes of nature’s simplicity and grandeur. His favorite subjects to capture were LDS Temples, his images immortalizing the breathtaking and reverent beauty of temples across multiple states.

Of all of his roles, Jim most valued that of husband, father, and grandfather and great grandfather. Jim was a constant presence at his children's sporting events, his enthusiastic cheers resonating from the stands. He imparted lessons of resilience, humor, and the occasional playful prank, never one to pass on a good Dad Joke. He had a gift for making others feel important, empowered and loved and he will be sorely missed by his family and all who had the great pleasure of knowing him.

Preceded in death by his parents and sister, Suzie Barzacchini, Jim is survived by his cherished wife, Kathy; his children, Kara Schneck (Mark), Kyla Doyle (Buck), Kami Schmedding, and Joseph Schmedding; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

A celebration of Jim's life will be held on March 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. MST at Allen Mortuary in Logan, Utah, followed by interment at Logan City Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com.

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