Micheal Elmer Schwartz
November 8, 1959 ~ March 2, 2024
Micheal Elmer Schwartz was surrounded by family, friends and loved ones when he died on March 2, 2024. Mike was loved by so many people and had a great time in life. He was a little bit ornery and the life of any gathering. You always knew when Mike walked into the room.
Mike’s joy was his family. He was one of eight children and loved spending time with his brothers and sisters and his own children. His true delight were his three grandchildren, Lucy, Arlo, and Gus. Just the other day they had talked “Papa” into taking them to a busy restaurant and he managed the situation like a pro! Mike was a great husband, dad, papa, brother, and friend.
His abrupt departure from this world kept him from enjoying his retirement that he was so looking forward to in January 2025. Mike would tell each and every one of us to “not wait” and to let the ones we love know it! Mike’s generosity extended past his death as he gave life though his organ donation.
Mike was born in Hoisington, Kansas, to Ray and Eleanor Schwartz. He went to college at the University of Kansas and later attained his Master’s degree at Wichita State University. He loved to follow the basketball programs at his alma maters - especially the Jayhawks.
While at KU, Mike met his wife Barbara (Klasinski) Schwartz and they enjoyed many great years together in marriage. They have two children Jenny (Chris) Van Tassell of Wichita, KS and Tyler Schwartz of Lenexa, KS. His grandchildren Lucy, Arlo and Gus will be left with fond memories of their “Papa”.
Mike is preceded in death by both parents, Ray Schwartz and Eleanor (Kaiser) Schwartz; brother, Ronald Schwartz; sister, Janet Schwartz and brother-in-law, Paul Rios. He is survived by siblings, Debra Schwartz of Eugene, OR, Brenda Rios and Judy Cooper both of Wichita, KS, Alan (Dorothy) Schwartz of Burlington, KS and Amy (Dennis) Schmidt of Garden Plain, KS; nephews and nieces, Keith, Brian, and Melissa (Ransdell) Schwartz, Heather Rios, Hunter and Katie (Lill) Schwartz, Aaron, Dalton, and Trevor Schmidt.
The Rosary will be at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton at 645 N 119th St W. Wichita, KS 67235, on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial can be made to the American Red Cross - Midway Kansas Chapter, 707 N. Main Street, Wichita, Kansas 67203.
Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.
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Saddened to hear of Micheal’s passing. I was a classmate of his for a brief time at Hoisington. I have fond memories of him. Thinking of his family at this time. Kevin Steinert
I had not seen Mike for many years but will always remember his smile. Like many of his class mates we went to school together for 12 years. He was talked about at every class reunion and his presence was always missed. Everyone always wished Schwartz had come. Prayers and condolences to all of his family! Bev Corkill
Mike was always pleasant and kind to me as we worked together at Evergy. His spirit will be truly missed.
I worked with Mike for many years at Westar/Evergy. Mike was a great project manager to work with and always had a positive approach and attitude toward each challenge thrown at our team. Prayers for Mike and his loved ones.
Stunned and Sad. Worked with Mike on several project in the community. Prayers for his Fam…
I will forever cherish my memories working with Mike at Evergy (and previously Westar Energy) and the field visits to various substations and transmission lines followed by lunch at PF Chang’s. You were a wonderful mentor to me especially those first 4 years of my career and a true a joy to work with. I’m fortunate to have had the opportunity to cross paths with you.
In loving memory of a wonderful person. My deepest condolences to Mike’s family and friends.
Our thoughts, prayers and sympathy go out to Jennifer, Tyler, Barb and the Schwartz families. Mike was a big part of the Klasinski family, and those memories will live on forever.
Mike had an energetic personality with a smile that made others smile. Our hearts are very sad to have lost Mike. Mike, we will miss you. May you rest in Peace. Love, Ray, Ginny and family.
Please accept my condolences. It was a privilege to work with Mike at Evergy. I am praying for Mike´s family. I wish you comfort and peace during these difficult times.
This was such sad news to hear of Mike’s passing. I feel blessed to have meant Mike and to be able to call him my friend. As sudden and unexpected as his death was… Micheal is at peace now…may his memories bring his family much comfort…and peace also…and while there will be many tears and grief, may his memory also bring them joy. My sincerest condolences…Mary Galvin
Mike truly was the most kind, sincere, gentle, funny and lovable person. He always kept the mood light and entertaining. We constantly had sore cheeks and stomach muscles after an evening spent with him from laughing so so hard. I will never forget the night he arrived at WBC dressed as the ELF he definitely put life into his reenactment of this character, while entertaining the kids, young and old alike. He was dearly loved and will be missed.
Our prayers are with the family in hopes they keep all their treasured memories in the forefront of their mind. We hope you gain some comfort and peace in knowing this life is not the end. For God has promised there will be a resurrection, John 5:28, 29, Revelation 21:3,4.
Mike was the life of any gathering at Judy’s house and anytime i stopped by for a beer and enjoyed the stories and his point of view on life. He will be truely missed and love through the community. Joe Bolster and family prayers will be with the family
I am stunned and sadden with the news of Mike’s passing. I worked with him for several years at Westar/Evergy on various projects and enjoyed the perspective only Mike could bring to the to the team. Mike was an amazing Project Manager, always willing to share his knowledge and stories. He will be missed. My condolences to his family and loved ones.