

Obituary
With sadness and heavy hearts the family of Joe "Doc" Steelhammer share with you his passing at 80 years of age.
Dr. Steelhammer passed away on January 8th at Lady Moon Hospital in Fort Collins, CO, after a courageous battle with stage four cancer. He is survived by his wife, Souzen Deavers Steelhammer, with whom he made his home.
Dr. Steelhammer, son of Millard and Virginia Steelhammer, grew up in Victoria and is a 1962 graduate of Victoria High School. He is survived by his siblings Robert (Judith), of Houston, and Jim (Agnes) and Patricia of Victoria.
Dr. Steelhammer studied at the University of Houston where he earned his BS and MS in Chemistry, and at the University of Minnesota where he received his PhD in Chemistry. Additionally, upon graduation he conducted postdoctoral research at Yale University.
He would then go on to work at Oakridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, Rohm and Haas in Pennsylvania, and at Buckman Labs in Tennessee. Dr. Steelhammer joined Southern Ionics Incorporated (SII) in 1995 where he served as Director of Research and Development for more than 20 years, and from where he would retire.
Dr. Steelhammer was instrumental in establishing the laboratories at Southern Ionics Incorporated. Under his leadership, what began as a small pilot lab at the West Point plant evolved into a fully realized R&D Center and Annex. His leadership in product development and research significantly contributed to the company’s enhanced analytical capabilities. He was a respected mentor for his team, encouraging them in the pursuits of advancing scientific knowledge and pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Throughout his tenure at both Buckman Labs and Southern Ionics, he authored numerous patents (view them here), leaving a legacy of groundbreaking work. His dedication to research and commitment to excellence laid the foundation for future advancements at SII. The integrity and quality he instilled in both the team and R&D facilities continue to shape the work being done at SII’s R&D Center today. His passion for chemistry not only inspired those who worked alongside him, but also fostered a culture of innovation and inquisition that endures.
Dr. Steelhammer and his wife Souzen were active members of the West Point community for 25 years. Joe was the Research and Development Director of the Southern lonics Laboratories and Souzen was active in the Arts Council and other civic and community organizations. They were members of First Presbyterian Church.
Joe Steelhammer was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather and an exceptional friend and mentor. Fond memories of countless summers spent together in the Outer Banks of North Carolina will forever be cherished by his family. His family takes comfort in knowing that he touched so many lives and left behind a legacy of love, concern for and generosity to others.
In addition to his wife and siblings, he is also survived by his two sons Jeff (Lonnie)and Scott (Sandi), his grandchildren Shelby (Josh Craver), Chris (Val), John, Tori, Jordan, and Shea. He is also survived by three great grandchildren, Nora, Anders, and Clara Craver.
Celebration of Life
We invite you to join us in honoring and celebrating the life of Joe “Doc” Steelhammer at one of three gatherings held in his memory. As we come together to share stories, laughter, and remembrance, we hope to reflect on the lasting impact he had on all of us.
Celebrations will be held in:
📍 Victoria, Texas – April 25, 2025 6pm Mass at Holy Family Catholic Church - 704 Mallette Drive]
📍 West Point, Mississippi – [TBD]
📍 Fort Collins, Colorado – [July 2025]
Each event will be an opportunity for family, friends, and colleagues to pay tribute to his remarkable life and legacy.
Souzen will reach out with further details as they become available.
We look forward to celebrating his memory with you.
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