Joseph Arthur Schmitt

Joseph A. Schmitt, 82, of Evansville, passed away Thursday afternoon, January 22, 2015, surrounded by his family at his son’s home. He was born July 11, 1932, in New Albany, Indiana, to Frederick and Margaret Mary (Flynn) Schmitt.

Joe was a loving and dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. Joe graduated from St. Xavier High School in Louisville, KY, where he met his future wife of 63 years who was a cheerleader at New Albany High School. Joe was an accomplished athlete, winning the gold medal in both the mile and half-mile at the 1950 Kentucky State Track Meet. Joe was a Vietnam War veteran, serving as a meteorologist in the US Air Force for 22 years, before retiring as a Major in 1973. After his service Joe graduated from USI and began his civilian career working for the City of Evansville and then dedicated nearly 30 years to the Evansville Urban Enterprise Association, retiring in 2013.

He, along with his wife, Bettye Jo, were very active in their church and served as adult youth leaders. Joe dedicated his time for his community dutifully as a swim meet judge, Boy Scout Scout Master, Girl Scout volunteer, West Side Kiwanian, and as a Hadi Shriner. Joe was especially devoted to the lives of his children and grandchildren. His wife, Bettye Jo, predeceased Joe in September, 2014.

He is survived by his son, Randy Schmitt (Sheri), of Honolulu, Hawaii, daughter, Roxann Coleman, of Mooresville, Indiana, and Reed Schmitt (Lori), of Evansville, Indiana, six grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren.

His family would like to thank Helen, Jodie and the Southern Care Hospice staff, Julie, Kandis, Beccy and the Home Instead Senior Care staff, and his good friend, Martha Payne, for all of their loving care for Joe over the past two years.

Joe and Bettye Jo’s wishes were to be interred at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii. As such, there will be no visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to the Vanderburgh Humane Society and Youth Resources of Southwestern Indiana. Messages of condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.