Joseph Schiel

Retired New Mexico State Police Agent Joseph Bernard Schiel III’s watch ended October 29, 2020 taking his final breath with his loving wife of 27 years, Mickie Schiel by his side in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Joe, as he is affectionately known to everyone fortunate to cross his path, was born April 20, 1960 in Wilkes Barre Pennsylvania, to loving father Joseph B Schiel Jr. and devoted mother Charlotte Schiel.  During Joe’s early years the family began an incredible journey through the United States; a journey that Joe would refer to when telling stories and talking about his youth.  Ultimately, the Schiel family settled in Artesia New Mexico, shortly after Joe completed high school at Monterey High School in Lubbock Texas.

After completing high school Joe started his own voyage, his first destination was the Crystal Lodge in Lake City Colorado, where he worked as a caretaker and cook.  Joe returned to Artesia, beginning a career working in the oil fields.  The stories Joe would tell about his time in the oil fields with the long hours and the hazardous working conditions are nothing short of remarkable.  Joe knew that the oil field was not where he was meant to be, he found his true calling with the New Mexico State Police.

On February 18, 1987 as a member of the 45th New Mexico State Police Recruit Class, Joe began his career as a police officer with NMSP assigned to District 7, encompassing all of northern New Mexico.   During his 25-year career at NMSP Joe touched the lives of countless people; investigating over 100 homicides, testifying in the court of law long into his retirement, and protecting the residents of District 7.  Earning him the title “The Legend Joe Schiel” among his family, friends and colleagues.

During his time as an officer with NMSP he met the love of his life in the ER of Presbyterian Hospital.  Mickie knocked Joe right out of his boots.  Joe worked up the courage to take this nurse out on a date to a movie, and the rest is history of fairy tale proportions.  Joe shared his love for outdoors with Mickie enjoying various activities such as camping, fishing, and repelling.  Continuing in retirement Mickie and Joe would on the occasional fishing trip or a hike searching for little treasures.

In July of 2002 Joe’s first grandchild entered the world, changing Joe’s life forever.  As the number of grandchildren grew Joe took the greatest pleasure in spending time with his children and grandchildren.  Sharing his vast knowledge and the occasional tale from his adventures.  Joe’s children and grandchildren all love their Papa bear.

Joe, you were an officer, a husband, a son, a father, a big brother, uncle, and friend to so many.  We want you to know that you are deeply loved and will always be in our hearts.  While you are unable to be in here in body you will live on through your loved ones and the experiences you shared with all of us.

The family would like to thank everyone for your overwhelming support.  The impact Joseph Schiel had on folks is evident by your kind words.  A memorial service will be scheduled in the near future when the world is a place and everyone will be welcome to share in the celebration of the life of Joseph Bernard Schiel III.

Joseph is survived by the love of his live and wife of 27-years Mickie Schiel; children and grandchildren Gene and Aiden Valdez of Mesa AZ; Misty, Damien, Donovan and Alora Lujan of Kirkland WA; Sarah, Buddy, and Sophie Abeyta of Albuquerque NM; father Joseph B Schiel Jr of Artesia NM; siblings Joyce Schiel of Roswell, Holly and Tim Harvey of Artesia, Jean Demerritt and Stan of Levelland TX; nieces and nephews Eric, Charlotte, Andrew, Casey, Vanessa, Sam, and  Leigh Anne;  three great-nephews and three great-nieces.Joseph is preceded in death by mother Charlotte Schiel; paternal grandparents Joseph and Thelma Schiel, maternal grandparents Ruth and Samuel Thomas; father and mother in law Buddy and Charlotte Gould.

NMSP:“Joe touched the lives of every officer he came across. His commitment to excellence in all investigations helped many victims and their families. Your work here is done, Legend. We’ve got it from here.”