Janet Schwarz, a longtime resident of Somers, NY, passed away on August 27, 2021, at the age of 70. Ms. Schwarz was an English teacher at the Lakeland Copper Beech Middle School.
Jan, as she always wanted to be called, was born in 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Robert J. and Arlene R. Schwarz. She graduated from Parkway High School in 1968, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University. She also earned two masters of science degrees.
She enjoyed playing all games with family and has especially enjoyed playing Mahjong with her friends. She loved to cook, watch old movies and collect antiques. She loved people and was friends with every one she met. Her family was most important to her and she enjoyed visiting them during the summer and at holidays. The highlight of her summers was visiting family in St. Louis and visiting her Uncle’s farm. Jan will be remembered for her long and meaningful teaching career. She was on many study groups, focus groups, committees and she also tutored students.
Jan is survived by her brother Randy (Ronda) Schwarz of Naples, FL, nephews Christopher Schwarz of Frederick, MD, and Jonathan (Alexis) Schwarz currently living in Shanghai, China, niece Elizabeth (Jacob) Witer of Lake Orion, MI, five great-nieces: Mia Schwarz, Ava Schwarz, Bella Schwarz, Charlotte Witer and Emma Witer, and great-nephew Bryan Schwarz. She was predeceased by her parents Robert J. and Arlene R. Schwarz.
Visitation Monday, September 13, 10:00 a.m. until service 11:00 a.m. at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Rd. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.
Randy,
We are so sorry for your loss. May Jan Rest In Peace.
Jan, May you Rest In Peace. I always enjoyed our chats that usually ended in our laughter. Godspeed my friend.
Dear Randy, Ronda and family,
We are thinking of you during these difficult times and hope you feel surrounded by much love. Jan always brought the fun when she came to visit. We all have special memories of laughter and good times that we shared with Jan. The joy Jan brought to our lives will not be forgotten. Jan made a difference in so many lives, especially as a dedicated teacher inspiring students to reach for their dreams. Our hearts go out to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Cousins Carolyn, Laura, Ben, Sarah, Allen, Emily, Troy, Brian, Francesca, Vivian, and Alexander
Sorry to read about the death of Jan. We went to middle school together at Lakeland and then she ended up teaching there; where she met my father who was also an English teacher at the middle school They became very good friends; in spite of the age difference. The last time we met was at my mom’s funeral in 2007. Every Christmas I send her a card and not being sure of her address I went to the internet and found this sad news….
My condolences to the family.
Myra Kursh Dror, ISRAEL