William Gene Schwartz age 67 of Hedrick passed away February 7,2026 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. He was born on July 3, 1958, to Dale and Betty (Hensyel) Schwartz of Hedrick. He was the youngest of 4 boys and raised on a farm just outside of Hedrick. He graduated from Hedrick High School in 1976. He was in the Army as Specialist 4th class, marksman rifle from November 1976 until November 1983. He was married to Carolyn Warren on July 4, 1981, and they were married 44 years. They had 3 beautiful daughters Amanda, Amber & Amy that Bill fondly referred to as the 3 Musketeers.
Bill was a devoted husband and proud father.
Bill was an over-the-road truck driver for several companies. Last he worked for Ideal Ready Mix in Ottumwa driving truck. Bill was an avid hobbyist; some things include planting flowers, tending to the yard, restoring old cars, wood working, building model trains and building and flying model airplanes. There wasn’t anything Bill couldn’t do, make or fix earning him the affectionate nickname “MacGyver” from his three daughters, a title he wore quiet proudly.
Above all else, he loved his family. He was deeply loved by his wife and daughters, and his steady presence, humor, and problem-solving spirit will be missed beyond words.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Schwartz of Hedrick, Iowa, his daughters Amanda Schwartz of Hedrick, Iowa, Amber (Blaine) Gill of Harvey, Iowa, and Amy Schwartz of Hedrick, Iowa; his grandchildren Paige Lisk, Christian Lisk, Camden Gill, Carter Stevens, Broc Schwartz; and his great-grandson Treyce Williams.
He is also survived by his brothers Mitchell (Laurel) Schwartz of Boise, Idaho, Richard (Gayla) Schwartz of Ames, Iowa, and Terry (Kathleen) Schwartz of Pueblo, Colorado; Sister-in-law Joyce Warren of Hedrick, Iowa, brother-in-law Eugene (Clara) of Hedrick, Iowa, sister-in-law Barbara (Jim) Hughes of Beacon, Iowa, cousin Hugh Myers of Pella, Iowa, with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will cherish his memory.
He was proceeded in death by his parents Dale and Betty Schwartz, brothers-in-law Roger Warren & Paul Warren.
His legacy lives on in the things he built, the lessons he quietly taught, and the love he gave so freely to his family.
Visitation will be held February 17, 2026, at the Fremont Funeral Home starting at 2 pm with family present from 5-7 pm and a private, family only graveside service February 18, 2026, in the Brooks Cemetery.
In leu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Ottumwa Radio Control Flyers.
