MSgt. Robert Eugene Schwartz, U.S. Air Force, Retired, passed away on February 8, 2013 at the age of 84. He was born on February 25, 1928 in Flint, Michigan to Irvin and Niva "Marks" Schwartz. He was preceded in death by his parents; survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Mary E. Schwartz; son, Guy Schwartz; daughter, Terri Schwartz; grandson, Trey Schwartz; and sister, Joan Ferrell.
Robert was cited for actions while engaged in operations against the Viet Cong forces in 1966 and awarded the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service in Vietnam. He was praised for his professional ability and great enthusiasm in overcoming the many problems associated with his duties. He graduated from Grand Blanc High School and then enlisted in the Navy in 1947, where he briefly attended Marquette University. Soon thereafter he transferred to the Marine Corp, before finally enlisting in the Air Force to complete his career. Robert coached little league baseball at RAFB, played softball, umpired and won athlete of the year at RAFB in 1964. He was ordained a Deacon in 1964 at Schertz Baptist and worked with the Royal Ambassadors there. He founded RACAP, a Christian assistance program, in Schertz, TX. From 1970-74 Bob Schwartz was a Schertz City Councilman, and chairman of the planning and zoning committee, establishing the Teen Center, and having many of the little league baseball fields built at City Park. Once in Burnet, TX he directed music for a time at the Silvercreek Church while working with the Handicapped Adult (MHMR) workshop in Marble Falls and the Special Olympics. Robert also worked for GVEC for 12 years, traveling all of Guadalupe County, when the Lord impressed upon his heart the need for a church in the Northcliffe area. He approached the Schertz Baptist family and they agreed to establish Cibolo Valley Baptist Church, where he also directed music, and was a Awana Commander for two years.
A visitation will be held on Monday, February 18, 2013 from 6:00 P.M.-8:00 P.M. at Colonial Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at 12:30 P.M. at the Cibolo Valley Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with full military honors.