Joseph James Schmitz

Joseph Schmitz, of West Harrison, passed away on May 16, 2022 at the age of 86.
He was born on April 17, 1936 in Cincinnati, Ohio to August and Hilda (nee Massmann) Schmitz.  Joseph married Mary Jo Sabers on October 17, 1959 and when she passed last year would have been 62 years of marriage.  Joe loved his wife and made the best possible life he could for her.  He was the only Boy Scout in his family growing up and enjoyed camping with family and friends. He was a devoted father of: David, Kevin, Bruce, Christopher, and Melissa. Each of them had a special relationship with their dad and he taught them valuable life lessons.  Joe started JSJ Construction and after 20 years he retired and his sons took over the business.  He created some great relationships within Hamilton County and became the Building Inspector for Hamilton County Building Department for 15 years, then worked for the City of Harrison as a Building Inspector until 2018.  He was a big guy but he was a big teddy bear at heart and would do anything for you.  He enjoyed making Ginger Bread houses with his grandchildren, reading books and being outside on his deck. Joe also enjoyed sneaking sweets whenever he could.  Family was important to him and he was also very spiritual and enjoyed attending Mass at St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross.

Joe was preceded in death by his dear wife Mary Jo Schmitz; parents, siblings: Tommy Schmitz, Bill (Shirley) Schmitz, Maggie (Ray) Schwartz, Alice (John) Ittner, Gus, Paul, & Bob Schmitz and brother-in-law: Tom Stark.

His memory will live on with his loving children: David (Marybeth) Schmitz, Kevin (Diane) Schmitz, Bruce Schmitz, Christopher (Kim) Schmitz and Melissa (Rich) Moore; cherished grandchildren: Lori (Andy) Finch, Jordan, Caroline, Maria, Lexie, Becca (Dylan) Dennis, Jared (Allison), Jermey, Josh (Allie),  Brooklyn & Dylan Schmitz, and Kylie, Braden, and Bryson Moore; and 5 great grandchildren. Joe is also survived by his sister: Annie Stark and brother: Allen "Boug" Schmitz; sisters-in-law:  Janet Schmitz, Janet Schmitz, Sylvia Schmitz; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Memorial Mass will be held at St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, 23345 Gavin Road, Bright, IN 47025 on Saturday, May 21, 2021 at 11 AM.  Words of remembrance will be before mass.  Fr. Daniel Mahan will be presiding.  Reception to follow at the Parish Center following the Mass.

Memorials in memory of Joseph are requested to Loving Hearts Hospice or American Cancer Society. Donations can be made directly to the organizaition. 

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