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Beloved Linden Merchant and Musician Kevin Lane Schmidt Passes Away
Schmidt, owner of the iconic 'Dimples' shop, was known for his generous spirit and dedication to the arts in his Tennessee community.
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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Kevin Lane Schmidt, a longtime resident of Linden, Tennessee, passed away on January 23, 2026 at the age of 72. Schmidt was the owner of the beloved local business 'Dimples', an eclectic shop offering healthy food, coffee, and unique gifts, which he ran with his wife Renee. In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Schmidt was an accomplished musician who played with local bands and helped mentor young performers through the Linden Vaudeville Players theater group that he co-founded with his wife.
Why it matters
Schmidt's passing marks the end of an era for Linden's downtown district, as he was the town's oldest merchant at the time of Dimples' closing. Beyond his role as a business owner, Schmidt was deeply embedded in the local community, known for his kindness, generosity, and dedication to the arts. His loss will be deeply felt by those whose lives he touched.
The details
In 2001, Kevin and his wife Renee moved to Linden, Tennessee to open their shop 'Dimples', which quickly became a cornerstone of the town's downtown scene. In addition to offering healthy food, coffee, and unique gifts, the store served as a gathering place where Schmidt could showcase his talents as a baker, carpenter, and locksmith through his business 'Kevin's Lock Solutions'. Outside of Dimples, Schmidt was an accomplished musician who played with local bands and co-founded the Linden Vaudeville Players to mentor high school students in the performing arts.
- Kevin Lane Schmidt passed away on January 23, 2026.
- Schmidt was born on December 20, 1953 in Evanston, Illinois.
- In 1987, Schmidt married Renee Denise Halstead-Schmidt in Tucson, Arizona.
- In 2001, Schmidt and his wife Renee moved to Linden, Tennessee to open their shop 'Dimples'.
- A celebration of Schmidt's life will be held on February 17, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Commodore Hotel in Linden.
The players
Kevin Lane Schmidt
A longtime resident of Linden, Tennessee who owned the iconic local business 'Dimples' and was known for his musical talents and dedication to mentoring young performers.
Renee Denise Halstead-Schmidt
Kevin Schmidt's wife, who co-founded the Linden Vaudeville Players theater group with him.
Nathaniel David Schmidt
One of Kevin Schmidt's three sons.
Joshua Mark Mathis
One of Kevin Schmidt's three sons.
Daniel Adam Schmidt
One of Kevin Schmidt's three sons, who passed away in 1996.
What’s next
A celebration of Kevin Schmidt's life will be held on February 17, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Commodore Hotel in Linden, Tennessee.
The takeaway
Kevin Schmidt's passing marks the end of an era for Linden's downtown district, but his legacy as a beloved community member, entrepreneur, and mentor will live on through the many lives he touched. His dedication to the arts and generous spirit left an indelible mark on his Tennessee town.
