Joseph Henry Schmidt II

Dr. Joseph Henry Schmidt Jr., known affectionately as Joe to his friends and Little Henry to his family, was welcomed into the loving embrace of his heavenly family on December 18, 2023 in Waxahachie, Texas. Born on December 5, 1943, on Galveston Island, Joe was a force of a man, yet had a beautiful tenderness at his core. He was a man of exceptional intellect and generosity, whose presence enriched the lives of all who knew him.
Joe was the beloved son of the late Joseph Henry Schmidt Sr. and Louise Schmidt, and spirited little brother to his late sister, Diane Emmert. Some of his most cherished memories were of spending time with his sister, mother, and father at their family grocery store at the corner of 16th and Mechanic in Galveston. Retelling tales of his childhood years was a favorite pastime, along with taking anyone willing down to "16th street." He took pride in his family and was forever thankful for their support throughout his life.
His memory will be cherished by his devoted wife of 41 years, Patricia Schmidt, his children, Joseph Henry Schmidt III, John David Schmidt Sr., and Marilea Louise Schmidt, six grandchildren, and the many friends and colleagues whose lives he touched.
A distinguished scholar, Joe's educational journey was marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering as part of the inaugural graduating class of Texas A&M University at Galveston, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, an ME in Mechanical Engineering, and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, all from Texas A&M University at College Station. His academic excellence was recognized through his membership in multiple scholastic honor societies, a testament to his intellectual prowess. His time spent in Aggieland held a special place in his heart and it wouldn't be uncommon to hear an echoed "Hullabaloo, caneck caneck" throughout his home. His school pride was only rivaled by his pride of country; Joe spent 5 years as a Marine during the Vietnam war and multiple subsequent years as a Merchant Mariner.
Dr. Schmidt's professional career was as remarkable as his military and academic ones. His contributions to the field of engineering were significant, including writing over 20 patents, contributing to countless publications, and being a distinguished lecturer. Joe had the honor of being named SPE Alaska Engineer of the Year in 1996; speaking at engineering conferences around the globe, he shared his insights and inspired a new generation of engineers. His work was not just his occupation but his passion, and his extensive knowledge and analytical skills led to numerous work honors and achievements throughout his illustrious career in oil and gas. Joe was a preeminent fracture expert with an elegant mind. His comprehensive approach to his research was meticulous and prolific. With such an extensive lifetime of achievements and accolades, one could easily become boastful, but not him. Joe was always gracious and humble and would go out of his way to explain concepts and brilliant ideas with care and childlike enthusiasm.
Outside of his professional life, Joe found joy in the simple pleasures. He was an ardent fan of Aggie football, a pastime that provided him with hours of excitement and camaraderie. An aficionado of old westerns, he could often be found in the company of his favorite cinematic heroes, lost in tales of bravery and adventure, all while sipping on a hot cup of coffee. An adept craftsman, Joe also relished the time spent in his workshop, where his hands skillfully turned ordinary pieces of wood into extraordinary works of art. Above all, however, Joe delighted in spending time with his family. Whether that was sharing a drive around Galveston, visiting with family at reunions, or watching television together in his den. This joy was mirrored in the time he spent with friends, often sharing stories and laughter over a bowl of seafood gumbo (extra Tobasco.)
His intelligence was evident to all who engaged with him, whether in academic discourse or casual conversation. His ability to uniquely problem solve allowed him to approach life's challenges with clarity and precision, a skill he imparted to his children and colleagues alike. Above all, Joe's generosity knew no bounds. He gave freely of his time, knowledge, and resources, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. This generosity was on display every October, when he graciously and without complaint baked dozens and dozens of cookies, too many to enumerate, for First Lutheran Church's Oktoberfest. "Papa's Cookies" gave him much satisfaction, knowing he was a part of fundraising for his beloved family church. His serious and stern demeanor was often undermined by his tenderness towards those he loved. This included his wife, children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. This tenderness extended to any living creature, reluctant to witness even fictional harm to animals. His especially soft spot for his "puppy dogs" was palpable and admired.
As we bid farewell to Dr. Joseph Henry Schmidt Jr., we reflect on a life lived to the fullest. His legacy is one of unwavering dedication to his family, his craft, and his community. His absence will be deeply felt, but the impact he made on this world will endure. While his journey here on earth has ended, Joe's memory will be forever treasured in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
We take comfort in knowing that Joe's journey was a remarkable one, and we find solace in the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the indelible mark he left on this world. Our Joe, Little Henry, Dad, and Papa will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.
"Softly call the muster, let comrade answer, "Here!" Their spirits hover 'round us: As if to bring us cheer! Mark them "present" in our hearts, we'll meet some other day. There is no Death, but Life Eterne for heroes such as they!"