Thomas "Tom" Schwartz (82) formerly of Effingham

Thomas "Tom" Schwartz, age 82, a long-time resident of Effingham, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024, at the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. 

Tom was born on September 22, 1942, in Effingham, the son of Arthur and Rose Schwartz.  He grew up in Sainte Marie, Illinois. After graduating from Newton High School, he attended Ranken Technical College in St. Louis to become an architectural draftsman. 

Over his career in the Effingham area he was involved in several residential and commercial building-related companies and was the owner of Creative Storage Concepts, Inc.  His buildings have left a lasting impact on the community.  Tom enjoyed playing baseball in his youth and was an avid, lifelong golfer.  He also enjoyed cheering on local teams, especially Effingham football games that Shannon and Travis played in.

Tom was a devoted family man.  The pride he had in his children - Scott, wife Renée, granddaughters Erin and Megan; Mark; Shannon (Franklin), wife Jennifer, grandsons Maddox and Coen; and Travis (Franklin), wife Kendra, grandchildren Gage, Gunnar, Remmy, and Harper — was evident to those who knew him, and each one held a special place in his heart.  Later in life he loved caring for his pet dogs, Lilly and Molly.

Tom is survived by his wife of 42 years Sharon; his sister Kathy (Wente) of Effingham and brother John of Normal Illinois.  He was preceded in death by his brothers, James and William.  He is also survived by several loving, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Tom’s family recalls countless joyful hours spent together at holiday celebrations as well as his private efforts to help others.  His presence was one of faith, kindness, and quiet strength, and he left behind an enduring legacy of love and commitment.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a future date.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Tom’s honor to the Parkinson's Foundation (www.parkinson.org).

Tom will be remembered for his enduring kindness, his devotion to those he loved, and his service to the community.  He will be dearly missed by all whose lives he touched.