Sherwood Thomas Schwarm, 95, of Summerfield, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2026 in Summerfield, Florida.
Born on May 9, 1930, in Racine, Wisconsin, to Ernest and Julia (nee: Franke) Schwarm. Sherry attended Washington Park High School in Racine, where he was blessed to meet his beloved wife, Mary Jane (nee: Bentz). Together they shared 67 devoted years, before she passed away in 2016. Sherwood was a dedicated husband and father; believing every mistake his children made provided an opportunity to teach through love and example. He typically had at least one child by his side while doing anything around the house, guiding by example and patience. As a father, he modeled hard work, persistence, and to always anticipate what was needed next. His impact runs deep within his family and he will always be remembered with profound respect and love.
Sherry was a very talented athlete from childhood. His love of sports continued throughout his life; as both a participant and fan. A lifelong Green Bay Packers supporter and season-ticket holder, he attended championship games in the 1960s, including the famous Ice Bowl game at Lambeau. He coached many sports teams for his children. Sherry lived vibrantly, staying healthy through bicycling and completed many century rides. He embraced life fully, moving to The Villages, Florida, after retirement so he and Mary Jane could continue staying active and spending many enjoyable years together as a team. In Florida, Sherry also spent many hours golfing in both leagues and with his golfing partner, Mary Jane. He regularly gathered with friends to play sheepshead and picked up the game of bocce, after retirement, at which he excelled. His great sense of humor drew people to him, making him an incredible role model with strong morals- selfless, kind, and always including others who may have otherwise been left out. He was smiling and making jokes in his final hours.
Sherry was a conservationist ahead of his time, shaped by the Great Depression into a frugal steward of resources who advocated preservation of the environment long before it was mainstream.
Most of his work life, 37 years, was dedicated to the City of Racine Department of Public Works and Parks Department. In 1953, Sherry was one of the founding members and charter members of Racine Municipal Employees Credit Union, which is still going strong. He was an early volunteer establishing the Mount Pleasant Recycling Center, volunteered extensively for Habitat
for Humanity in Racine, as well as Home Helpers, and St. Vincent de Paul in Florida. Throughout his adult life, he was active in Holy Name Church and School in Racine and/or St. Timothy Parish in The Villages, Florida.
In his later years, Sherry often remarked how blessed he was to meet his special partner and companion Helen Lamanowski, with whom he shared many interests including music and enjoying the beautiful Florida weather. Helen became part of his large and welcoming family.
Sherry is survived by his children, Jacqueline Oettinger (Thomas) of Racine, Kirt Schwarm (Lynn) of Appleton, Joni Brock (Paul) of Rathdrum, Idaho, Kevin Schwarm (Susan) of Libertyville, Illinois, Kenneth Schwarm (Suzi) of Puyallup, Washington, Kyle Schwarm (Susan) of Madison, Jill Hrycay (Steve) of Janesville, and son-in-law Joe Chaves; his friend/partner Helen Lamanowski of Summerfield, Florida; numerous grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; in-laws; nieces; and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, Mary Jane Schwarm (née Bentz); daughter Jeri Chaves, granddaughter Mary Jane Chaves, father Ernest; mother Julia (née Franke); brother and sister-in-law Alden “Auggie” and Joyce; and brother Walton “Bud.”
Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, March 28, at St. Richard’s Church, 1509 Grand Avenue in Racine.
In lieu of flowers, donations to your local Habitat for Humanity or Saint Richard’s Church in Racine are appreciated.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.