Renee Carleton Schaarschmidt (Smith) peacefully passed away on November 20, 2025, at the age of 71 surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Palo Alto, California, to Thomas Rice Smith and Merriam Elaine Fox, she is survived by her siblings Phillip Donald Smith and Patricia Elaine Williams. Renee graduated from Soquel High School, where she was introduced to the love of her life, Frederick Ernest Schaarschmidt, whom she married in 1972.

Renee was a devoted wife to her husband of 53 years and a loving mother to her four children — Jessica Corkern (Dan Corkern), Kimberly Hunter (Jeffrey Hunter), Tiffany Santiago (Mark Santiago), and Steven Schaarschmidt (Emily Schaarschmidt), ten grandchildren and one great grandchild. She was known for her warm smile and infectious laughter which could light up any room. Renee found immense joy hosting family gatherings, cooking and baking sweet treats, always creating a warm and inviting home. She enjoyed gardening, interior design and decorating for the holidays.

Throughout her life, Renee treasured her travels, especially to the Islands of Hawaii and Carmel, as well as the many unforgettable family camping trips to Lake Shasta.

Renee was greatly loved and will be deeply missed. Her legacy is one of unconditional love and support, which will remain forever in our hearts. A memorial service will be arranged in the near future to honor her life and legacy.