Milan Schmiesing, CPA, one of our Founding Partners and dear friend, passed away on Tuesday, June 24, 2025.
Milan dedicated over 53 years to the public accounting profession, serving clients with integrity, while developing countless friendships. He was a trailblazer who embraced technology early, helping CDS evolve with the times and setting a foundation for innovation that still drives our firm today.
After graduating from Willmar Vo-Tech’s Accounting program and serving in the U.S. Air Force, Milan began his accounting career with Latham & Parker, CPA’s in 1969. His close friendship and active community involvement with Rick Conway and Roger Deuth, along with his visionary leadership, led to the founding of Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing, PLLP (CDS) in 1985. That partnership laid the foundation for the firm as it exists today.
Milan made history as the first technical school graduate in Minnesota to earn a CPA license — a testament to his determination and pioneering spirit. His professional affiliations included membership in both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants (MNCPA).
Throughout his career, Milan specialized in tax planning and preparation, business consulting, estates and trusts, and for-profit auditing, with deep expertise in the construction industry. Even after retiring from the partnership in January 2010, Milan continued to serve clients part-time until his full retirement in May 2022. His insight and steady presence were deeply valued by colleagues and clients alike.
Milan truly cared about his CDS team. It was important to him that his colleagues had meaningful careers, opportunity for development and advancement, as well as balance in life. He was instrumental in ensuring that CDS had a positive, welcoming and collaborative workplace culture.
Milan was an active volunteer, sharing his time and talents with many organizations over the years that helped to better his community, including the Kandiyohi County and Willmar Economic Commission Joint Operations Board, Willmar Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Willmar Noon Lions and Honor Guard.
Outside the office, Milan enjoyed hunting and fishing — hobbies that reflected his appreciation for patience, precision, and the great outdoors.
Milan’s legacy lives on in the culture of excellence and service he helped build at CDS. We are deeply grateful for his lasting contributions, his mentorship, and his unwavering commitment to our clients, firm and the profession.
