Edward Adair Schwarze

It is with deepest sorrow we announce the passing of Edward Adair Schwarze of Chillicothe with his family by his side on 12/18/2024.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A family celebration of life will be determined later.

Memorials in Ed’s name may be made to the Heart of Il Shriners (mohammedshriners.org) or the ICC Caterpillar Electrician Training Program (icc.edu/give/).

Ed was born 2/9/1946 in Palm Beach FL to Gloria Frances “Fran” Adair and Edward Leland Rasch. He was later adopted by Max Schwarze. He graduated from Metamora High School in 1965 where he met and married his wife Cathy (Schrepfer) on Oct 29, 1966. He served in the Army National Guard and worked at Caterpillar for 35 years until his retirement in 2001 as an electrician and training manager. 

He was a Noble of the Mystic Shrine and a Master Mason of the Scottish Rite Free Masonry for 50 years. He was a Student Member of the American Society of Tool and Manufacturing Engineers and was instrumental in developing the Caterpillar apprenticeship program. Ed enjoyed singing, community theater, fishing, swimming, racket ball, classic cars, reading, riding his lawn mower, puzzles and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years Cathy (Schrepfer) Schwarze of Chillicothe IL, daughter Becky (Rich) Fisk of Dunlap IL, grandson Christopher Fisk of Dunlap IL, and sister Susan Lewis of Glendale AZ. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Larry Schwarze.

He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him as husband, Dad, Papa, brother, family, and friend.

Cards can be sent from and condolences left at illinicremation.com