John Carl Schwartz
John Carl Schwartz, 67, of Iola, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 13, 2026.
John’s life was defined by his love for his family, his commitment to his community, and the countless relationships he built over his 67 years. Although Frontotemporal Degeneration changed the final years of his life, it could never take away the impact he made. His kindness, humor, generosity, and the memories he created with those around him will forever be cherished.
John was born and raised in Park Falls, Wisconsin, and graduated from Lincoln High School before attending Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, where he studied telephone data. In 1978, he moved to Iola, the community he would call home for the rest of his life.
At the center of John’s life was his family. He shared 47 wonderful years of marriage with his high school sweetheart, Mary (Yunk) Schwartz. Together, they built a life filled with love, friendships, travel, and traditions. John was a proud father to Melissa (Dan) Lake of Waupaca, Wisconsin, Michelle (Wes) Mork of Iola, and Joseph (Emily) Schwartz of Neenah, Wisconsin. He was a loving grandfather to Julian and Lanie Mork, who brought him immense pride and joy.
John dedicated 38 years to TDS Telecom, where he was respected for his strong work ethic, dedication, and commitment.
Beyond his career, he proudly volunteered with the Iola Fire Department for 34 years, retiring as Deputy Fire Chief. He was an active member of the Iola Lions Club, served with the Iola-Scandinavia Jaycees, and the Iola Winter Sports Club, where he was proud to work on the start of the trail lighting project. He also served 18 years on the Iola Car Show, Inc. Board of Directors.
Besides his immediate family John is survived by his siblings, Linda (John) Charleston of Scandinavia, Wisconsin; Mary (Phil) Schwartz-Haug of Baraboo, Wisconsin; Steve (Jackie) Schwartz of New Richmond, Wisconsin; mother-in-law, Laura (Gotz) Yunk of Park Falls; in-laws, Carol Merten of Park Falls, Ron and Kathy Yunk of Park Falls, Joan Yunk of New Baden, Illinois, Donna Yunk and Deb Mayhew, Superior, Wisconsin, and Randy Yunk of Park Falls. Along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin and Joyce (Hartway) Schwartz; grandparents, Carl and Mary Hartway; father-in-law, Robert Yunk; sister, Virginia (Ginger) Wartgow; nephew, Benjamin Wartgow; brother-in-law, William Merten; and sister-in-law, Patricia (Herdina) Yunk.
Whether through family, the fire department, the car show, his work, or simply around town, he had a gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and like a friend.
A Celebration of Life for John will be held on Saturday, July 25, at the Iola Car Show Grounds, 350 Chrome Place, Iola, located in the room next to Otto’s Bar. Please watch for signs as you enter the grounds. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m., with a time of remembrance at 1 p.m. A meal and celebration of John’s life to follow.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Dementia Living Oshkosh and Compasses Hospice for the compassionate care they provided John over the past seven years. Your kindness, patience, and love meant more than words can express.
Voie Funeral Home of Iola, is assisting the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family has established a memorial fund in memory of John.
