John Howard Schwartz

John Howard Schwartz, age 84, of Knoxville, TN, beloved husband of Debbie Congleton Schwartz, passed away on Monday October 24, 2022. Born in New York City on February 16, 1938, son of the late Barbara Schwartz and brother of the late Joan Lewis. He attended the Barnard School for Boys, Bucknell University and graduated from Boston University where he was a member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity. He was a United States Army Veteran serving in the 197th ASA during the early 1960’s. In 1964 and 1965 John was employed by General Motors at the New York World’s Fair. Then afterward was employed by General Motors for Previews of Progress. He continued his career at the Kentucky Fried Chicken corporation in franchise management. After moving to Knoxville, John was in management at Concoal Corporation until he retired. John and his wife, Debbie, met in New York City in 1976. They were married in 1979 and began a 43-year journey together sharing their love of travelling the world and playing sports together, including snow skiing and tennis. John’s love for people was heartfelt, warm and genuine, and he made friends everywhere. He truly never met a stranger. His favorite spots were the beaches of Fire Island, NY, Pawleys Island, SC and Captiva Island, FL. He was always a gentleman who entertained his friends and family with his clever stories, most often told with so much of his laughter he couldn’t get to the end! John was an avid sports fan. His favorites were the New York Giants, UT Vols and most importantly the New York Yankees! In addition to his wife Debbie, John is survived by his nephew Jeff Lewis and wife Karin Miller-Lewi, their children Josh Miller Lewis and wife Sarah Meyerhoff and daughter Gillian Daar and husband Mitch Daar; his niece Diane Lewis and husband John Beres and their son James Beres, daughter Sydney Beres and fiancée Nathan Pajka. Also survived by his sister-in-law, Mindy Congleton, her children Justin, Lydia and Sophia Rubenstein; brother-in-law Lee Congleton, his wife Jackie and their children; daughter Katie, son Yates and his wife Erin, son Brewer and his fiancée Mary Louisa Miller; Uncle Joe and Aunt Posey Congleton and their children and grandchildren. Also, his many nieces, nephews and cousins! As Debbie, his wife, loved animals, John became accustomed to not being surprised what furry creatures became a part of the family and of course the animals and children loved special treats. Debbie would like to give a special thank you to those who helped care for John during his last years; Brent, Michael, Shannon, Janet and Linsey. Thanks also to Linda and Larry Hitch for their friendship, love and never-ending assistance to John and Debbie. Receiving of friends will be at Rose Funeral & Cremation - Mann, 6200 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919 on Saturday, December 10th, 2022 from 1 to 3 pm. A celebration of life will follow in the chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be given to the Davis Family YMCA in Knoxville where John had very fond memories. Online condolences may be made at www.rosefuneraltn.com

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John Howard Schwartz

October 24, 2022