Corky Schwartz

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Charles Ernest “Corky” Schwartz, age 82 of Galena passed away at 4:29 PM on Monday, April 12, 2021 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO.
Corky was born in Joplin on August 8, 1938 to the union of Otto Christian Schwartz and Laurena (Hinkley) Schwartz. He attended St. Peter’s High School, graduating with the Class of 1955. 

For many years, he managed Schwartz Drug Store in Galena. He began working for Empire District in Riverton in October of 1977 and remained there until he retired as a supervisor in 2001. 

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church of Galena, the Knights of Columbus of Galena, the Galena Jaycees, the Galena Lion’s Club, and was a lifetime member of the NRA. He took special pride in his yardwork, maintaining a pristine appearance on his property as long as his health would allow.

He was united in marriage with Mary Louise (Jones) Schwartz on December 29, 1956 in Joplin. She survives.

Additional survivors include two sons, Mike Schwartz (wife, Mary Kay) of Sarcoxie, MO, and Robert “Bob” Schwartz of Wasilla, AK; one daughter, Angela Price (husband, Arthur) of Clever, MO; 4 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren with another expected in November, 4 step-grandchildren, and 5 step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Laurena; one brother, Keith “KO” Schwartz; one son, David Schwartz; one grandson, Ronnie Schwartz; and one great-grandson, Zachery Merando.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, April 19, 2021 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Galena with Father Jeremy Huser serving as the officiant. 

Pallbearers serving will be Gary Ryan, David Swaney, Rick LaTurner, Toby VanCleave, David Russell, and Dan Goodhope, with honorary pallbearers Harry Cantrell, John Gibson, John Davis, and Bill VanCleave.

Following the service, private family burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Webb City, MO.
Rosary will be held at 7:00 PM on Sunday, April 18, 2021 at Derfelt Funeral Home of Galena, followed by the visitation until 8:30.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.