Orlando, Fla. — In a devastating tragedy, 19-year-old University of Central Florida freshman Timothy “Tim” Schmidt Jr. of Weston, Florida, was among the victims of a mass shooting in Downtown Orlando during the early hours of November 1, 2024. Schmidt and another victim, Tyrek Hill, 25, lost their lives when a 17-year-old gunman, Jaylen Edgar, opened fire, leaving eight others wounded.

Schmidt, known as “Timo” to his family and friends, was a promising young man who had recently begun his college journey at UCF, following in the footsteps of his father, Timothy Schmidt Sr., with dreams of a career in business. Friends, family, and his Alpha Epsilon Pi Nu Delta fraternity at UCF are rallying to support his family, raising funds for funeral expenses and to honor his memory.

Tim recently said on NCSASports.org that “Nothing in the world makes me more happy than kicking a ball with people that to me, I consider family members. From a young age, it was instilled into me that pure skill doesn’t get you far enough. That’s why I feel like for the longest time I’ve always been the hardest worker, on the field and off it.”

Born on September 9, 2005, at Pembroke Pines Memorial Hospital, Tim’s journey was marked by his warmth, humor, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones and passions. A proud graduate of Cypress Bay High School, Tim’s talents shone in both academics and athletics. He was a celebrated soccer player who played for Weston Select, Plantation FC, and Weston FC, creating lifelong friendships on fields across Florida and even Hawaii. When not playing, he worked as a bar back at Smoke on the Water Cigar Bar and served as a soccer referee.

“What drives me is my happiness and passion for the game, trying as hard as I can to make it to the next level, and maintaining a good education, while making my parents proud,” says Tim.

Tim’s loss has reverberated throughout Florida, leaving a void in the lives of countless family, friends, coaches, teammates, and teachers. Known for his wit and his caring heart, Tim’s legacy is carried on by his mother Lina Velez, his father Timothy Schmidt Sr., stepmother Michelle, his uncles David and Matthew, and his grandmother Lynn, with whom he shared long, heartfelt conversations.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, November 8, 2024, at Forest Lawn Funeral Home in Davie, Florida. The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and messages from friends and well-wishers, reflecting on the profound impact Tim had in his 19 years.

To honor Tim’s life, the family requests donations in his memory to either the Jason Taylor Foundation, supporting South Florida’s children in need, or SIDES, which assists families affected by Ewing’s Sarcoma and funds research for pediatric cancer.

For those who would like to support the family financially, donations can be made via GoFundMe: Fundraiser in Memoryof Tim Schmidt Jr..

Tim Schmidt Jr. will be remembered for his vibrant spirit, his dedication to those he loved, and his lifelong contributions to the soccer community that shaped him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.