5/20/1936 – 8/25/2026
Baldwin City
Services for Don Schwartz, 90 of Baldwin City, will be at 10:30 Friday 8/28/2026, at Worden Cornerstone Church. Burial will follow at the Worden Cemetery.
Don left his earthy life to meet Jesus on Tuesday, August 25th, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Donald Charles was born on May 20th, 1936 on the family farm in Worden to Lester and Lola (Hobbs) Schwartz growing up with sister Joanne (Hastings), who survives. He was a lifelong member and faithful attendee of the Worden Church.
He married Jane Christine (Anderson), which is how he referred to her. They celebrated their 68th anniversary on June 1st this year. He would tell anyone who listened that he felt lucky to ever have married his Jane Christine.
Other survivors include son Greg (Kelly) Schwartz, Baldwin City and daughter Carrie Enick (Schwartz), Baldwin City. He was preceded in death by son in law Dale Enick. He also was preceded in death by his youngest son Scot who passed away in December 2025. We can hear him saying “Hi Bud”, as Scot and Dale opened the door to heaven.
He is also survived by 6 Grandchildren: Charley Jo (Brett) Pittenger, Jacob (Jamie) Enick, Camdon (Madison) Schwartz, Rachael (Ericko) Borrero, Hayley Schwartz, and Callie (Kyle) McDaniel. He was blessed with 12 Great Grandchildren: Keeley, Landree, Ryken, Kayson, Emery, Wrenley, Rylee, Bryson, Elijah, Emilia, Micah, and Collins. He was fondly referred to as “Papa Don” by his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and many more. His grandchildren were his pride and joy.
Don attended Union School in rural Douglas county through 8th grade, and graduated from Baldwin High School in 1954. One of the things he enjoyed most about high school was playing center on the high school basketball team, going to the Kansas state tournament and placing 4th. After High School, he attended KU, participating in track and trying out for basketball. His love for sports carried on as many in the community remember seeing him cheering on his children and grandchildren at all sporting events and activities.
Don worked for the Kansas State Highway Patrol from 1957 until taking a position with Douglas County Sheriff’s office in 1960. He worked in various roles at the Sheriff’s Department, including Under Sheriff, retiring in 1998. He received several commendations while working as a Deputy Sheriff. While working a full time job, he was also a full time farmer. Along with the support of his wife Jane, he was able to take over the family farm, managing over 90 cattle and crops across 800 acres. He took pride in his family’s homestead, dedicating his work to continue their legacy.
He was many things in life: beloved husband, best Dad, Uncle Don, Don Daddy to some, and Papa Don to many. He was “110-110” at work and possibly other names that he didn’t share. Despite his fading memory, he always had the biggest smile and happily referred to everyone as “Sis” or “Bud” even after he had forgotten names. We take solace in the many wonderful memories shared.
We would like to thank the staff of Ascend Hospice and especially the staff at Vintage Park/Homestead of Baldwin City. Everyone has been very caring and went over and above all expectations.
A visitation will take place from 9:30 to start of service on Friday morning at Worden Cornerstone Church, 294 E 900 Rd Baldwin City, KS. The family recommends memorials to the Worden Cornerstone Church building fund, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home: PO Box 1260, Lawrence, KS 66044.
To leave a message for Don’s family, please visit Rumsey-Yost.com.
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