Joseph Edward Siegmund

Joe Siegmund of Spring, Texas, left this world on Sunday, March 8, 2020 after doing all he could to overcome his failing body and heart.

Joseph Edward Siegmund was born at home in White River, South Dakota on August 20, 1927.  His parents were Arthur and May Siegmund, pioneer settlers to South Dakota, taking on the harsh elements in the frontier to make a better life.  He had two siblings with his parents, Joyce Siegmund Astleford, and Paul Siegmund, both of which preceded him in death.  When his father remarried, he gained a stepmother, Sophie Banek Siegmund, as well as some additional siblings; Reinhold Banek, Anita Banek, John Siegmund and the baby of the family, Betsy Siegmund. Sophie and Betsy both preceded him in death.

Joe would often claim that his family was the most important thing in his life that God had blessed him with.  His number one brag line was marrying his wife of 68 years, Jean Siegmund.  They met at the University of Nebraska in 1950 and got married in 1951.  Together they had five children: (Tim) Paul Timothy Siegmund, David Scott Siegmund, Mark Alan Siegmund, Bruce Edward Siegmund, and Jane Elizabeth Siegmund.  These five children have literally spread themselves all over the globe as they married and lived in Africa, Asia, Europe and South America.  The seeds from little White River, South Dakota and Lincoln, Nebraska have spread all over the world.  These five children produced twenty grandchildren that have been blessed to know him as Grandpa. He had twelve much loved great-grandchildren as well.

He was more than a husband and father, he was a loved brother, Uncle, co-worker, neighbor and tennis partner.  There is one word that people often used to describe him: "Kind".  He was indeed a kind man.

Joe was patriotic, he served his country by enlisting in the U.S. Navy as soon as he got out of high school. After serving in the Navy, he attended University of Nebraska and graduated with a degree in Geology. He worked for 28 years for Chevron, USA taking positions in Colorado, Utah, Florida, Mississippi and Louisiana.  Finally, in 1980 he joined Westland Oil Development located near Houston, Texas.  He worked for Elf Operating Inc., and DelMar Operating Inc.  before completely retiring in 1995.  He was professionally active in The American Association of Petroleum Geologists, The Houston Geological Society, The Houston Geophysical Society and the New Orleans Geological Society.

Many knew him as an avid tennis player.  He never claimed to be great, but he collected a few trophies in Oilfield tournaments, often upsetting younger players.  He played a couple times a week for over 40 years, playing well into his 80's. He enjoyed getting together with others and getting the exercise, he truly missed it once he could no longer play.

Most of what he did was done quietly.  He didn't crave attention or accolades.  He often helped people without telling anyone.  He did good in secret.  He worked hard and rarely missed work. He worked overtime when needed.  He studied hard and pursued additional classes in law, speech, finance, computer, business and other topics. He was always learning.   He saved so he would not be a burden to others. He rarely complained unless it was about politics, which is completely understood.  He was quick to give others praise and encouragement.  He faithfully exercised his body and his mind so he could serve others better. He loved his wife deeply and faithfully.  He quietly taught his children the importance of faith, education and hard work.

When he left this world, he did it quietly.  After fighting hard and getting better, he just slipped off into heaven.  He did it at a time when the COVID-19 virus was getting most of the attention, but before it arrived in the area.  He was a kind, quiet servant.  We could use some more servants like him.

A memorial is tentatively set for August 1 ^st , 2020 in the Spring, TX area.  More details will follow as we know more.  In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Klein United Methodist Church or The Village at Gleannloch Farms Chapel Fund, 9505 Northpointe Blvd, Spring, TX 77379 (please note VGF Legacy with Chapel in the notation when giving).