Brayden Parker Schmidt

Brayden Parker Schmidt, a beloved son, friend, and adventurer, passed away on July 24, 2024, at UnityPoint Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, IA.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 2, 2024 from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, 8201 Hickman Road, Urbandale.  A prayer will conclude the visitation at 5:00 PM.

Born on September 9, 2003, in Des Moines, Brayden was just 20 years old, but he lived his life with a simplicity and passion that touched everyone who knew him.

From an early age, Brayden had a deep love for nature. He found peace and joy in the great outdoors, whether he was camping under the stars or simply taking a walk through the woods. His curiosity extended to all things electronic and mechanical. Brayden had a knack for taking things apart and putting them back together, always eager to understand how things worked. This interest in mechanics was matched by his love for cars and driving, and he could often be found under the hood of a car or behind the wheel, enjoying the freedom of the open road.

Brayden was also a devoted animal lover, with a special fondness for the pets he grew up with. His gentle and caring nature extended to all creatures, great and small. In his leisure time, Brayden was an avid gamer, with Grand Theft Auto being a particular favorite.

Despite his many interests, Brayden remained a simple, down-to-earth young man. He cherished the simple pleasures in life and valued the relationships he built with those around him.

Brayden is survived by his parents, Marc Schmidt, Nalaina (Stephanie) Baker, Josh Stanley and Amanda Fitzsimmons; grandparents, Richard Schmidt, Sherrie Hernandez, Erin Frey, Marcia Walker-Alexander, Bruce Baker, Barbara Ashby, Jackie Stanley and Debi (Rex) Williams; brothers, Damon Pratt and Carlos; sister, Zoe Keller and many aunts, uncles and cousins and his beloved cats and dog.

He is preceded in death by his grandmother, Marsha Schmidt; grandfathers, Mickey Frey and Mark Grabenbauer and uncle, Eric Schmidt.

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