James Schwartz

Jim was born on July 22, 1926 in Leavenworth Township, the son of Frank and Hertha (Petermann) Schwartz. He graduated from Sleepy Eye High School in 1943, served in the U.S. Navy in World War II from 1944 until his honorable discharge in 1946. He then began his lifetime career of farming. Jim married Irene Mohr at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New Ulm on February 3, 1951. He was a member of St. Mary's Parish and served on the Parish Council. Jim was a member of the 3rd and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, and the Catholic Aid Association. He was involved in Associated Milk Producers Inc., American Dairy Association, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Jim is survived by his wife Irene, children Gretchen (Phil) Hesli, of St. Paul, Joe (Judy)Schwarz, John (Rose) Schwartz, Mark (Anita) Schwartz all of Sleepy Eye, Michael (Michelle) Schwartz of New Ulm, Mary (Jim) Cok of Lee's Summit, MO, Katie Schwartz and Anna (Steve) Plasch, all of St. Paul. Jim also had 23 grandchildren, Sara (Danny) Franzese, Lauren Hesli, Tim (Cassie), Brian, Emily, Liza, Jacob, and Molly Schwartz, Andrew, Daniel, Peter, and Natalie Schwartz, Allison, Andrea, and Abigail Schwartz, Meghan, Katelyn, and Jack Schwartz, Adriana, Stephanie, and Eleanor Cok, and Madeline and Cecelia Plasch. He is also survived by sister Pricilla (Roger) Starn, sisters-in-law Leone Schwartz and Kathleen (Hal) Fodness, and brother-in-law Elmer Churchill. Jim was preceded in death by his son Greg, July 22, 1965, his parents, brothers Neiman, Franklin, Lloyd and sister Margaret Churchill. Jim was a devoted husband and father whose life revolved around his children and grandchildren. He was very supportive of their school activities and sports events. He loved family gatherings, especially holidays. Jim also enjoyed fishing and playing cards with family and friends