Joseph C. Schwalke Jr.

He was born in Los Angeles, CA on December 14, 1942. Joe worked at Jim Walter Homes, Inc. after high school. Following in his father’s footsteps, he then joined the United States Marine Corps, serving in the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1968. Joe was a proud member of HMM-364 Purple Foxes helicopter squadron, maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing electrical systems on the squadron helicopters. He reached the rank of Sergeant before being Honorably Discharged. Being a marine taught him the value of discipline, teamwork and investing in a cause larger than himself, and these values contributed to his success in civilian life. After his military service, Joe worked at CSX Transportation from 1969 until retirement in 2003.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph C. Schwalke; mother, Caroline Melton Schwalke; brother, Michael A. Schwalke, MD, and nephews, Michael A. Schwalke II and John Robert Schwalke.

Joseph is survived by his sister-in-law, Carol Schwalke, his nephew, Joseph D. Schwalke, and his niece, Anna Catherine Schwalke, as well as his beloved Chihuahua-mix, Pebbles.

Joe was the kindest, most humble man. He lived a simple life, loved wholly, was a loyal friend and dedicated to his country. His family will remember him for the care and support he always provided and will miss his quiet yet steady presence.

The family would like to thank Dr. Cherie Ann Nathan, Dr. Ameya Asarkar, Dr. Chuck Fox and Dr. Mike Sewell, among many at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport who provided such wonderful care to Joe. Additionally, Dr. Michelle Self, Lauren Walker, NP and the St. Joseph’s hospice center staff at The Carpenter House were incredible in their care for Joe to allow his transition to be as peaceful as possible.

A graveside service for Joseph will be held Friday, July 26, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Hill Crest Memorial Park, 601 Hwy 80, Haughton, Louisiana 71037.