Eugene Schwartz

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Eugene George Schwartz Sr., a pillar of strength, wisdom, and generosity, passed away on March 17, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and service. He was born to Herman and Teresa Schwartz on February 9, 1938, in Paris, AR, where his journey of remarkable accomplishments began. 

Gene's pursuit of knowledge led him to graduate from Subiaco Academy in Subiaco, AR, in 1956, followed by earning his Bachelor's degree in Accounting from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR.

His professional journey began in Ft. Smith Arkansas where he and his brother Robert owned Sunnymede Drive Inn. In 1966 he moved his family to Neosho to become Controller for Talbot Industries, working for brothers Bob and Lloyd Talbot. In 1977 he became President and an owner until it was sold in 1989. After building OakTree Mart on south Oak Ridge Drive, he went back into the wire fabrication business and opened K&S Wire Products in 1995. In 2007 Gene sold a portion of his business to his employees, creating the K&S Wire Products Inc ESOP, believing employee ownership created successful businesses, which continues to this day. He remained as chairman of the board until his passing.

Beyond his professional achievements, Gene's commitment to his community was unwavering. He served on numerous boards in various organizations, including Mercy Hospital, Neosho Land Development Inc., Neosho Transportation Development District, Neosho Chamber of Commerce, the Knights of Columbus, Subiaco High School Foundation Board, Joplin Medical School Fundraising Committee, Joplin Dental School Fundraising Committee, Missouri Chamber of Commerce, Missouri Association of Manufacturers, MO Enterprise, R5 School Foundation, and Grow Neosho formally known as NABIFI among many more. His past memberships include being President of the Neosho Chamber of Commerce, Quail Unlimited, Crowder Industries, and Rotary Club, he also was a founding member and President of the Wire Fabricators Association among many others. Gene's dedication to civic duty was recognized with the Gibb Garrow Lifetime Achievement Award, by the Neosho Area Chamber of Commerce, a testament to his tireless efforts in making a positive impact on those around him. He was also actively involved in the SWMO Republican Party.

In his leisure time, Gene found solace in nature through hunting, fishing, and traveling cherishing moments spent with dear friends, and time at his home on Beaver Lake with family. Gene was a devoted friend to many and a family man, finding joy in their company. He is survived by his loving children, Sheila Parsons and husband Jerry, and Grant Schwartz and his wife Ann, his grandchildren Savannah Herrmann and husband Matt, Nicholas Schwartz, Spencer Parsons, Kennedy Schwartz, and Sophia Schwartz.

He also leaves behind siblings Betty Kreutzer and husband Walt of Pleasanton, CA, Bill Schwartz and wife Linda of New Blaine, AR, Mike Schwartz and friend Carl Menniger of Washinton, D.C., and a sister-in-law Martha Schwartz. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Gene Schwartz Jr., and his siblings Robert Schwartz, and Leona Schwartz

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the caregivers who were so important to him living his last year as well as possible.

A memorial service to celebrate Gene's life will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at Clark Funeral Home in Neosho, followed by a Catholic Mass for the family at 1:00 pm at St. Canera Catholic Church, where Father Chaz Dunn will officiate. Gene will be laid to rest at Neosho IOOF Cemetery. Serving as Pallbearers will be Nick Schwartz, Spencer Parsons, Joey Versluis, Dave Padgett, Les Rainwater, and Carl Talley, Honorary Pallbearers are Warren Langland, Rudy Farber, Jim and Sue Story, Bill Martz, Randy Harrison, Ronnie Meiers, Pat Smith, Bart and Karol Mayer.

A Rosary will be held at 4:00 pm on Monday, March 25, 2024, at Clark Funeral Home following a visitation till 7:00 pm. An open viewing will be available from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on Monday, March 25, 2024. Contributions in Eugene's memory can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601; St. Canera's Catholic Church, 504 S. Washington St. Neosho, MO 64850 or Faithful Friends, 11281 E. Hwy 86, Neosho, MO 64850

Eugene George Schwartz Sr. will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his legacy of love, service, and integrity continue to inspire generations to come.
Online condolences may be posted at www.clarkfuneralhomes.com

Services are under the direction of Clark Funeral Home, Neosho, MO.