Joseph Lucien Block, II

Joe was born on June 30, 1949, to Ada and Charles Block, and was named after his paternal grandfather, Joseph Lucien Block (“JL”), who had died three days prior to Joe’s birth.

Even as a young child, Joe was a people person who provided his family with an endless stream of conversation and some creative stories and pranks. At family dinners he enjoyed recounting in detail family stories, some embarrassing, that most didn’t remember, and some wanted to forget.

In 1951, his family moved into their newly built home in the Memorial Drive area, and subsequently, Joe attended Spring Branch ISD elementary and secondary schools. He graduated from Spring Branch High School in 1967 and went on to attend the University of Plano, graduating in 1972.

Joe had a gift for gab, and one of his favorite boyhood activities was to ride his bike to the nearby dry cleaner’s shop where he would sit on a stool at the counter and greet the customers. His “gig” ended when his mother decided that he had some chores to do at home and the shop owner needed a break.

Joe loved to travel, and in the 1970’s he visited Russia with his uncle and later traveled to England, France, Canada. Closer to home, he loved the excitement of Las Vegas, and the spectacular scenery of Hawaii and Alaska.

In the 1970’s and 1980’s he enjoyed working at Baroid, where he made many friends, and later at InterFirst Bank.

Joe is survived by his twin sister, Elaine Block, his sister, Mary Block Smith, his brother, Donald Block, his brother-in-law, Harry Smith, and his longtime friend and companion Jim Hill.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, who will cherish his memory. Nephews: Edward and Lucien Block, David and Michael Hanna, and Matthew Smith. Nieces: Hannah Block, Lily and Lena Block.

Funeral service will be Monday, August 26, 2024 at 11:00am in the Hunters Creek Chapel at Earthman Funeral Directors, 8303 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77024 with a reception immediately following in the Event Room. Graveside service will be at 2:00 pm at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, Texas 77023.