Dale E. Schwarz

Dale E. Schwarz, 82, passed away on November 7, 2024 at the Kahl Home in Davenport. He was born on January 27, 1942, at Mercy Hospital in Davenport.

Dale graduated from North Scott High School in 1960.  He earned a diploma in aircraft maintenance from the United States Army Aviation School at Fort Rucker in 1964 and served in the Army National Guard until an injury cut short his service in the mid 1960's. It was then, while in the hospital with his injury, he met a cute nurse named Judy Hueser, who turned into the love of his life.  They were married February 10th, 1968, at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Davenport. Earlier this year they celebrated 56 years of marriage together.

Dale's career began on his family farm in northern Scott County until 1984, when he transitioned to a smaller property near McCausland with his family. He worked at Caterpillar until the late 80's.  He then owned and operated B&D Lawn service. He ended his working career by driving for the Davenport Citibus for over 20 years until his retirement.

Dale will be remembered for his unique personality, marked by a mixture of gruffness and quick wit. He was frequently asked by children on his bus routes and other places if he was the real Santa Claus. He will also be remembered for his laugh (usually silent and red-faced with his shoulders shaking), his distinct exaggerated sneezes, along with sayings like “There you go, thinking again” and “What were you thinking?” that left a lasting impression on those who knew him well. Dale also held a humble stance, often saying, "Don't worry about me," despite the struggles he faced.

Throughout his life, Dale had a variety of interests. An avid golfer, he spent time as a golf instructor. He enjoyed games of poker and other card games with friends. He liked roller coasters at amusement parks, and made sure he had motorbikes, snowmobiles, and a golf cart for the kids.  He loved drag racing, a passion that he happily shared with his son, Bill. He dedicated countless hours to coaching his daughter Jenny in developing and honing her softball pitching skills, culminating in her career on the North Scott Softball team, which claimed the Iowa girls state title in 1987. Dale also coached daughter Ann's softball teams over the years.  He proudly followed all the athletic and musical endeavors of his children, and later on, his grandchildren.

 He is survived by his three children: Jennifer (Bruce) Mace and their children Jacob Wiepert (Emily), Ally (Adam) Henningsen, and Zachary Mace; Bill (Jenny) Schwarz and their children Nikki, Justin, and Bethany (Albert) Schwarz; Ann (James) Jekel and their children Kira, Alex, Katie, and Grace Jekel; as well as step-grandchildren Jessica Mace and her children Corrina, Marilyn, Sheri, Robert, and Jackie; Adam (Bre) Mace and their daughter Dallas; and great-grandchild Mila Henningsen.

Dale was predeceased by his beloved wife, Judith Schwarz, just four months prior to his passing, as well as his parents William and Mary Edna (Olson) Schwarz, and siblings Laverne Schwarz, Donald Schwarz, Vernon Schwarz, Darlene Litterer, Joyce Schwarz, and many extended family and friends.

A  celebration of life gathering will take place Friday, November 29th from 2-5pm at the Long Grove Community Center in Long Grove, Iowa. All family and friends are invited. Memorials can be made to the family, McCausland Volunteer Fire Department, or to your favorite charity.