Richard Dennis Schwark

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Colonel Richard Dennis Schwark, 81, a beloved father, grandfather, and dedicated service member, who left us peacefully on August 8, 2026, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Born on April 29, 1945, in Muncie, Indiana, Richard was the son of the late Richard Lee Schwark and Wanda Sue (White) Schwark. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable achievements but also for the warmth and humor he shared with those around him.

A proud graduate of Connersville High School in 1963, Richard furthered his education at Purdue University, receiving a degree in Economics in 1968, and later earned a Master's Degree in Information Management Systems from Florida State University. His commitment to excellence and leadership was evident in his 35 years of dedicated service in the U.S. Army, where he proudly served as a Vietnam veteran. Throughout his military career, Richard held various roles, including working in transportation, stock brokerage, and ultimately at General Dynamics after retirement. His exemplary service was recognized with prestigious awards, including the Legion of Merit and a Bronze Star Medal.

Beyond his military accolades, Richard was a man of deep affection and caring spirit, always exuding an endearing and mischievous grin. He devoted himself to his family, supporting them with love and care, and was particularly proud of his grandchildren. Richard's interests were many; he enjoyed hunting, fly fishing, cooking-proudly amassing a remarkable collection of 400 cookbooks-reading, and traveling the world.

Richard is survived by his children: Steven Matthew "Matt" (Dyan) Schwark; Stacey Marie Schwark; David Wesley (Summer) Schwark; and Kathleen Michelle (Kevin) Steppler; grandchildren, Alexander (Kamsey) Schwark; Adam Schwark; Nathaniel Schwark; Graceyn Schwark; Eric (Jessica) Schwark; Ryan Schwark; Katelyn Schwark; Elizabeth Schwark; Hayden Steppler; and Liam Steppler; great-grandchild, Ayla Wren Schwark; siblings, Janice K. (Marv) Milholland; Brenda Schwark; Robert "Bob" Schwark; and Gary (Judy) Schwark; and dogs, Silja and Kaalia.

Richard was preceded in death by parents: Richard Schwark and Wanda Schwark, and wife and companion, Ruthann (Clerget) Schwark.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to his daughter Stacey, whose unwavering support and care enriched his life over the last ten years.

Arrangements for Richard were entrusted to the Jones-Smith Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 259 North Main Street, Upland, Indiana 46989, where on Saturday, August 15, 2026, there will be a viewing from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M., with the funeral beginning at 1:00 P.M. with Pastor Al Soultz officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Matthews Cemetery, in Matthews, Indiana.

In honor of Richard's service and dedication to our country, memorial contributions may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

As we reflect on Richard D. Schwark's remarkable life, we celebrate a man who embodied strength, laughter, and an unyielding commitment to his family and country. He will be dearly missed but forever remembered for the indelible mark he left on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.