Charles Henry Schwarz

Charles Henry Schwarz, husband of Susanne Hayden Schwarz, was born to German immigrant parents on April 18, 1929. His family, including father, Charles Jacob Schwarz, mother, Marguerite Schwarz (Renken), and sister, Dorothy Schwarz (Clayton), moved to Mt. Washington, MD in 1943 from his birthplace of Ridgefield, NJ. Mt Washington became a very special place for Charlie and he would spend the next 82 years of his life as a part of the community. Influenced by his father and mother, he learned to engage his body and mind to problem solve, work with his hands and establish an incredible work ethic. These 3 traits would become the foundation of his long life of 97 years. Charlie passed away at Gilchrist Hospice Care on August18, 2026. City College in Baltimore prepared him for the future. As a member of the swimming and diving teams at both City and Meadowbrook Swim Club and his parents love of sailing he became comfortable with and enjoyed being in and around the water. He was Enlisted for almost 4 years of Naval service as a Parachute Rigger-Petty Officer 2. Sailing for pleasure and the thrill of sailboat racing became central in many life events and family vacations. Sailing was a passion that he shared with anyone who was willing to brave the challenges of wind and waves. While living in Mt Washington, Charlie met Mary Emily Carman. They were married in 1952 while he serving in the Navy. Their family would grow to include Emily Schwarz (Abbott), deceased, and Bruce Edward. Charlie and Mary Emily would build their family on knowing and understanding the deep love of God and his provision and protection. This would become the solid foundation needed to navigate their lives together. Mary Emily died in 1972. Through a solid bond and deep faith in God, together, Charlie, Emily and Bruce would deepen their bond. In 1975, Charlie married Susanne Grafflin Hayden. She was welcomed into the family and together they began a new journey of deep love, admiration and expressing their faith in God. Emily, Wayne, and their two sons, Brian and Douglas died suddenly in 2002 and their daughter, Margaret was grafted into Bruce’s, family, joining Matt, Sarah and Alston. Seven grandchildren, spouses, and 8 great grandchildren. Matthew Schwarz and Kate Schwarz (Wilson) with Charlotte (Charlie) and Riley Rose. Sarah Schwarz (Trimmer) and Nate Trimmer, Campbell and Sullivan (Sully) Gonzalez and Maisie Trimmer. Alston Schwarz, and Sarah Grace Schwarz (Shisler) and Willow. Margaret Abbott (Searcey), Luke Searcey and Emily (Emmy) and Leah Searcey. Great Granddad loved us well. Charlie and Susanne enjoyed traveling, sailing, antics at Camp Royal, caring for friends and family and immersed themselves in the ministry of Valley Presbyterian Church where Charlie was now an Elder. In 1996, Charlie’s faith lead him to become deeply involved in planting a new church in the town of Hanover, PA. After retiring from his full time job at Signode Corporation, van life became a joy for both Charlie and Susanne. They explored America together with great stories of small towns, and National Parks and less traveled roads. Later, when they were traveling less, Charlie was always interested in the adventures of others and would support and encourage the discovery of new places and experiences. Spring of 2025, he and Susanne had a new adventure when they moved to Pickersgill Retirement Community. Making new friends and enjoying the activities the community offered. He enjoyed his independence for many years. He laughed and joked and his eyes would twinkle when he was a little mischievous. He was a golf caddy in his younger days, a plumber, an electrician, appliance repairman, auto mechanic, a sailor, accountant, all around “fixer of things" a man who loved God and was fiercely family. He will be forever remembered for his joy of living, exploration and discovery, his knowledge of how things worked, problem solving, love for God, and helping others. Life was full for Charlie, he made the most of everyday. The twinkle in his eye and his delight in playing tricks or messing with you will be missed. His stories will be shared to the next generations. Memorial Service: August 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Roland Run Presbyterian Church 2200 W. Joppa Rd. Visit with the family from 10 to 11 a.m. and at the reception immediately following the service at the Church Donations to: Roland Run Presbyterian Church 2200 W. Joppa Rd Lutherville, MD 21063 Samaritans Purse Online: https://Samaritanspurse.org

Charles Henry Schwarz

April 18, 1929 - August 18, 2026