Joe Dell Schwab

Joe Dell Schwab, 74, of Smoot, Wyoming, passed away peacefully at home on July 12, 2024, surrounded by his children. He was born on July 31, 1949, in Afton, Wyoming, to Dell and Mary Lou Schwab. Joe grew up in Smoot with his siblings: David Schwab (Patti-deceased); Helen Merritt (Lynn); Kathleen Simpson-deceased (Steven); Marylin Schwab (deceased), Ludean Page (Lynn); LaVon Reilly (Dwight); Erryn Herbert Schwab (Merrilee). A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he shared his testimony many times during the last week of his life. Joe had strong faith in and dedication to tithing and fast offerings. In November 1967, Joe married Bonnie Merritt, and they had five children: Dixie, Mike, Steve (deceased), Brian, and Scott. Joe was a hard worker, taking on various jobs throughout his life, including welding, logging, oil fields, drilling water wells, road construction, sawmilling, and eventually retiring after 25 years with JR Simplot. In May 1991, Joe married Barbara Baldwin (deceased). He welcomed her children: Chance, K.C., Kate Jensen (deceased), and Ellie Jones, into his family. Joe was a proud grandfather to 20 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Joe was known for having a fun, witty personality. He loved to tease and joke around, and he had plenty of words and one liners that were unique to Joe. He affectionately became known by "King of Smoot" in his later years, a title that he put into action as he would survey the neighborhood from his throne under the big pine trees at his home. A viewing will be held Friday July 19th from 6-8 PM at the Schwab Funeral home in Afton, and Saturday July 20th at 11:00 AM before funeral services in the Smoot/Osmond LDS Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 12:00. Following the funeral Joe will be laid to rest in the Smoot cemetery.