John George Schwarz
John George Schwarz, 76, formerly of Trumbull CT and now residing in Bridgewater VA, passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2024 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease and many other illnesses.
John was born August 4, 1947 in Bridgeport CT and graduated from Trumbull High School, Trumbull CT. He was a son of the late John and Jacqueline (French) Schwarz. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased in death by his Aunt, Dorothy French and his Aunt and Uncle, Fran and Sid Atkinson.
John retired from Sikorsky Aircraft in 2006 after 36 years in electrical maintenance. His great passion was volunteering as both Driver and EMT for Trumbull Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) in Trumbull CT for 28 years. If you couldn't find him, chances were he was on an ambulance with his best friend taking a back-to-back call. He also worked as an EMT for American Medical Response (AMR) of Bridgeport CT for 17 years and was fondly known as "Schwarzie".
On June 12, 1987, John married the love of his life, Judy (Blozzon) Schwarz, who survives. He is also survived by his daughters, Denise Esteves (Baby Girl) and her husband Robert of Ansonia CT and Kathy Valvo and her husband Sal of Naugatuck CT; 4 grandchildren (Christopher, Stephanie, Rebecca and Marc); 4 great grandchildren (Tessa-Paige, Gabriel, Brook-Lynn and Cayden); along with very special friends/family (Doug Stanley, Wayne McDorman, Matthew Hohenstein, Keith Grogg and Darryl (Moosie) Miller) who were always there for him as he struggled through these last few years.
John was a very proud veteran and served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War. He was a member of the American Legion in Orange CT and currently the VFW and American Legion in Harrisonburg VA. He could be found on most Friday nights at the VFW playing Bingo and/or having a drink with friends. Another great joy for him was finding our home church and becoming members of Mill Creek Church of the Brethren, Port Republic VA. In addition to belonging, we found a wonderful family along with the strength and support we needed for him during this struggle.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. A special thank-you to Dr. Matthew Cauchi and Dr. Christopher Burri along with many of the doctors, nurses and other staff members at Sentara Rockingham Memorial Hospital (RMH) where he spent much of the last 2 years. John always had a smile, kind words and appreciation for everything they did and he was blessed with such great care. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Parkinson's Foundation.
A memorial service celebrating John's life will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Harrisonburg American Legion Post 188 located at 350 Waterman Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22802.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Bridgewater VA. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.johnsonfs.com.
