Heinz W. Schmitt

A man of honor, integrity, and an amazing husband and father, Heinz W. Schmitt passed away on Friday, July 14, 2023. Heinz is survived by his wife of 60 years, Barbara Schmitt; children, Karl Schmitt and Karen Glenn; granddaughter, Darby Glenn; older brother, Gunther Schmitt and sister-in-law, Judy Schmitt.

Born in New York, Heinz earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering at Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute before moving to New Mexico in 1960. He then earned his Master’s degree at the University of New Mexico and a Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University, both in Mechanical Engineering. Heinz worked for 36 years at Sandia National Laboratories and retired as Vice President of Weapons Systems Development in 1998. Heinz was recognized with a Secretary of Defense Medal for Outstanding Public Service, Oklahoma States’ Melvin R. Lohmann Medal for leadership in nuclear weapon technology and policy development, and a Distinguished Alumnus award from the University of New Mexico School of Engineering. Outside of work, he played a significant role in developing youth soccer in Albuquerque and enjoyed coaching and being a referee. Additionally, he loved traveling with his wife, listening to jazz music, fishing, and drinking fine wine. Heinz will be remembered for his intelligence, wit, and compassion.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at La Vida Llena Healthcare and Ambercare Hospice.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 28, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at FRENCH – Wyoming. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Assistance League of Albuquerque or a charity of your choice. Please visit our online guestbook for Heinz at www.FrenchFunerals.com