Jacob Ryan Schmidt

He is survived by his wife Brandy and step-children Isaiah and Halie Lige of Baytown, TX; his mother Sharon McFadden of Honolulu, HI; his father and step-mother Bob and Tricia Schmidt of Humble, TX; brother Eric Schmidt of Humble, TX; grandparents Fred Schmidt and Glenda Schmidt, both of Richmond, TX; grandfather Richard McFadden of Midland, TX; and numerous other relatives including aunts, uncles, cousins, half- and step-siblings. He was preceded in death by his adoring grandmother, ""Chickie"" McFadden.

Born on January 24, 1983 in Hobbs, NM, Jacob grew up primarily in his adopted state of Hawaii. Jacob loved all things Hawaiian - the culture, the cuisine, the ""Aloha"" spirit, and the beautiful islands and ocean. He expressed his love of Hawaiian through many of his tattoos.

Jacob was also an aficionado of mixed martial arts. He enjoyed working out, sparring, and training in the arts and was fortunate to participate in a few professional fights before injuries forced him to stop. The physicality, sweat, and blood from fighting were an exhilarating thrill for him. Some of his fondest memories were the camaraderie he shared with his sparring partners as they traveled back and forth to fighting events in a small van. His passion for MMA was, again, expressed through many of his tattoos.

Many of his other passions included cooking, camping, fishing, and his pet dogs.

Jacob was an amazing man who touched many lives. He was very charismatic and had a gift of making friends with everyone. He laughed easily and had a beautiful, inviting smile. His love was boundless. He enjoyed celebrating any occasion, be it a holiday, birthday, or even just a weekend barbecue with friends and family.

Jacob loved his family dearly. He was especially close to his brother Eric and they shared a particularly unique bond. Eric always felt safe when Jacob was near and considered Jacob his protector.

His many cousins looked up to him. He had great affection for them and they adored him in return. He had a teasing and playful nature. He made a strong impression in their lives, though some of his aunts and uncles might argue, maybe not always the best influence!

Three years ago Jacob was blessed to meet and marry his beautiful wife Brandy, along with her two wonderful children, Isaiah and Halie. She loved him unconditionally and was a steadying influence in his life. He was happiest being a family man. He loved and adored Brandy and was very proud of Isaiah and Halie.

Tragically Jacob's life ended much too soon. Far from perfect, he lived life in the moment with passion and spirit. In the tradition of martial arts, and articulated by the prominent tattoo on his chest, he lived the life of �Vale Tudo�, Anything Goes.

His family will receive friends at Navarre Funeral Home Sunday, May 2, 2010 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at Navarre Funeral Home on Monday, May 3, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Art Argueta officiating. The family will host a reception after the funeral at the Missouri Street Church of Christ, 3400 South Hwy 146 Business, Baytown, TX 77520.

Serving as pallbearers will be Eric Schmidt, Kyle Schmidt, Michael Schmidt, Scott Sovereign, Michael Alvarez, Jason Jackson, Jerry and Roy.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the ARDS Support Center Inc. which provides information, education, and support for those who have been affected with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, a devastating effect of the H1N1 virus.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX, 77521 (281) 422-8111.