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As search efforts for Annie Schmidt conclude, family expresses gratitude, faith
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The family of Annie Schmidt has continued to search for the missing 21-year-old since the formal search was suspended on Sunday but the family will conclude its search on Wednesday. - photo by Morgan Jones
Jon Schmidt, pianist and member of The Piano Guys, has called for an end to the search for his missing 21-year-old daughter, Annie.

We are moved beyond words by the thousands who have searched, prayed for and helped our effort for Annie in any way, Schmidt was quoted as saying in a post on Facebook. At this time, out of consideration to so many out-of-state people involved in the search, the Schmidts have set a conclusion time of Wednesday afternoon so travel arrangements can be planned accordingly.

Still, Schmidt called for one final push from family and volunteers in the search. Authorities suspended official search efforts on Sunday evening.

Until then, we are gathering up all our strength, energy, faith and prayers for one more push, he said. Your thoughts and prayers have made such a difference. Please keep them coming for one more day.

Search parties were scheduled to begin the final search this morning. An invitation was extended for prayers for impressions to know where to go and where to look as well as for sunshine.

Annies mother, Michelle, posted an expression of gratitude for the love and support that has been shown to her family. She also shared a message she received from someone on Tuesday.

I went to school with your daughter, the message began. In high school I was a very depressed and sad girl. I had a problem with self harm and had no friends. But your daughter, not even knowing me, would always ask me how I was doing or tell me I looked beautiful or just sit and talk to me.

She might have no thought of what that would have meant to me, but those little things she would do plays a big part of why Im still alive today. She is the sweetest person I have ever met in my life.

Michelle Schmidt then expressed what she thought her daughter would want people to do at this time.

If people wonder what they can do, Annie would say, love each other, Michelle Schmidt said. Be kind to each other. Reach out of your circles and comfort zones and open your heart and your mind to those around you. God loves you. Love each other. Im certain this would be her message. How grateful we are to have such a beautiful daughter that has taught us so much. I love her so much.
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