Joseph Leonard Schmidt, age 56 of Freeport, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 27, 2020 while visiting family in Mountlake Terrace, WA. He was born March 10, 1964; the son of Edward and Katherine (Barth) Schmidt. He was a 1982 graduate of Shannon High School.  Joe had previously been married to Sue Koester, they were married in 1986.

Joe worked several jobs over the years including salesman, construction, landscaping, Crew Foreman AKA "Papa Smurf," and lead cheesemaker. He was a member of the Moose Lodge and Eagles Club of Freeport. He was a karaoke enthusiast and avid motorcycle rider. Joe was also a fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears. He was lovingly known as "Uncle Joe" to many and as "Cowboy Joe" to all.

He is survived by his mother, Katherine Schmidt of Shannon; children, Kevin (Diane) Schmidt of Houston, TX, Arthur Schmidt of Gratiot, WI, and Marissa Schmidt of all over (a traveling Gypsy); his former wife, Sue Koester of Freeport; sisters, Barbara (Robert) Sargent of Lanark, IL and Carol (Brad) Kauffman of Freeport; many nieces and nephews; grand-dog, Ronan; and grand-cats, Jazmin, Mufasa, and M.J. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward; brothers, Edwin and Chris; and sister-in-law, Sue.

A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in his name. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com