It is with great heartache that we announce the very unexpected passing of Joel David Mundt on August 30th, 2021, at Houston Methodist West Hospital. Joel, 41, was a dedicated and loving father, husband, son, brother, and friend.
Born June 6, 1980 in Houston, TX, Joel was first child of David D. and K. Sharise Mundt. Since then, he has lived his life with a fierce loyalty and quick wit that most would aspire to. Growing up in both TX, and then SC, he attended Riverside High School in Greer, SC. After graduating in 1998, he would then go on to attend the University of Houston, bringing him back to his childhood hometown.
Only a couple of years would pass before Joel would meet his future wife, the then Valerie Joy Morandi. The couple was wed on his birthday in 2010, and then in 2013, he became a dad. After 21 years together, 12 in marriage, and 7 as a father, there was still much love that was yet to be.
Along with his wife Valerie, he leaves behind his two children Ellie Alexandra (8) and Sean Barrett (5). Joel is also deeply missed and survived by both his parents, David and Sharise Mundt of Greer, SC, his sister, Ashlyn Danielle Brown (& Jason), his nieces, Madeline Elizabeth (12) and Addilyn Sophia (6), nephew, Thatcher Wesley (3), his maternal grandmother, Jennie Ruth Waynick, his paternal grandmother, Mildred Marie Mundt, his aunt, Tracey Scarpulla (& Dave), his uncle, Perry Waynick, cousins, and in-laws. His entire family is devastated by this sudden loss.
Joel is predeceased in death by his maternal grandfather, Phil A. Waynick, paternal grandfather, David H. Mundt, and his adopted brother, Tommy D. Runion.
Described by his wife as her rock and her love, he believed in showing up for people whether, or not that was convenient for him. Joel was a strong man with strong beliefs that he was confident in, yet he remained a great listener, a combination that is hard to find today As a father, he sought to pass on these same concepts to his children.
Joel loved any and all social occasions but was also the friend you could count in hard times. Proficient in both discussions and debate, he enjoyed films, music, and authentic Texas brisket. He was an avid player of all games – cards, board, online, etc. A true gamer at heart. Whether you remember Joel with family, music, food, or games, if you knew him, you loved him. His memory remains and his legacy lives on with those who loved him.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 3rd at 4:00pm in the Brazos Chapel of Katy Funeral Home. Reception to follow. Details can be found at: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/katy-tx/joel-mundt-10332084
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family via the Joel D. Mundt Memorial Fund at the following link: https://gofund.me/9d55c87c