Our beloved David Mark Schwalbe passed away on Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at the age of 63. He was born in Long Island, NY on September 27, 1958.
Dave was an incredible, compassionate spirit that had a way of touching all around him in a caring and positive way. Anyone who knew Dave was warmed by his mild temperament and quick wit. He could always see the humor in a situation and make others smile.
Dave was a diehard sports fanatic that supported the NY Giants and Yankees — Even during the seasons when they didn’t deserve it! Dave also loved music, especially classic rock and jazz. He would often play air guitar, sing a song from the radio, or turn his own words into a song during a light conversation. He remained close with many of his childhood and college friends throughout his life.
He loved his work as an engineer, a manager, a leader, and a mentor to countless young professionals. He made a positive impact to the companies he served, as well as his co-workers, employees, and his peers throughout his successful career. His intelligence, admirable work ethic, and determination to see any obstacle through will be greatly missed. He was just, “that kind of guy!”
He is survived by his mother Vivian Blum Schwalbe, daughters Sarah Michelle Dietrich (Kevin Dietrich) and Jessica Schwalbe Bejerano, and grandsons Crusade Dietrich and Killian Dietrich. Dave also leaves behind his sister, Ellyn Schwalbe Hodgis (Jeff Hodgis), niece Courtney Gonzales (Rico Gonzales), nephews Jason Mead (Himashi Mead) and Nick Mead (Michelle Mead), several great nephews, many cousins, and Aunt Louise Lew (Saul Lew). Dave was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, his father, Karl Schwalbe, and his beloved labradoodle, Julius Fluffer.
He loved his family, his soulmate Christina, and his closest friends very much. He will be missed more than words can say, but we know he is proudly watching over us. Rest easy “Schwabels,” we all love you.
Please join us in a celebration of Dave’s life on Saturday, January 29th 1-4pm (inclement weather date Sunday, January 30th) at 8074 Stone Road, Apopka, FL 32703. To honor Dave’s passion for sports, you are invited to wear your favorite team’s jersey or lucky shirt. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to support Crusade and Killian’s education fund at https://gofund.me/6d42c5b8.
Christine and Josie Campos says
We were lucky enough to know Dave. He quickly touched our hearts and became part of our family. He was a joy to be around. We will treasure the precious memories we have if you. Rest easy my friend, I know we will knowing your watching over us. We love you and miss you very much.
Christine, Josie and Jacqueline
Lucy says
I send my most sincere condolences to the family for your loss, I know what it is to lose a loved one and although they leave a great void in our lives, we will always keep the most beautiful memories, he was a good human being on earth now he is an angel in the sky. God bless the whole family.
Rachel Carroll says
My condolences for your loss. David was always so cheerful and sweet. He will be missed.
Mark Dash says
My deepest condolences to the family. I worked with Dave for five years and can not say enough how much I thought of him. He epitomized the definition of a “great guy”. He had an amazing positive attitude, worked very hard to help others, and he always found practical solutions to tough problems. Every single interaction I had with Dave was positive. I will miss you my friend and will see you on the other side.
Alisa Chastain says
Dear Christy,
We were so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing.
When we met him at the reunion, he was such a nice guy.
We love you and know our hearts are with you. Prayers for you and the family.
Aunt June
& Lisa
Sander Reijmers says
My deepest sympathies go out to the family. Dave was a good colleague and a great individual.
I wish you all much strength with this terrible loss.
Sander Reijmers
Brenda Lubian says
So sorry for your loss, he was a great men and will be missed by many people. I cant imagine what you are going thru, but I am here for you if you need anything. He is in a better place, and no longer in pain. Now our thoughts and prayers are with you that time will ease your pain. I cannot be wiith you tomorrow but Ivam sending you this words from my heart.
My sincere condolences.
Kristine Benson says
Sending my Sincere Condolences to all of Dave’s Loved Ones. So sorry for your Loss. May God Continue to Comfort Everyone with Love, Strength and Peace during your most difficult time of grief. So Sorry for your loss. Take Care, Rest in Heavenly Peace “Compassionate Spirit Schwalbe,” and as Classic Rock Band Lynyrd Skynyrd sings it…”Fly High Freebird!” Sincerely, Kristine Benson
DEANIE says
Dear Christie, Can,t even begin to tell you how very sorry I am to know that Dave passed away. It,s devastating I know . He was a very kind and caring man. I ,m so glad I got a chance to meet him. Your time together was precious. Love you, Aunt Deanie
Dave Valentine says
Family, though I only knew Mr. Schwalbe for a short period of time, I did have the favor of his acquaintance for a few weeks. His positive vide, strong spirit and determination to keep going is something I will keep with me for good.
There are no appropriate words for a time like this. Know that we on the Houston side care and will send up prayers for God to spread His care and lovingkindness all over each of you as you remember the good times.
Carlos & Doris Leite says
Christina, our condolences to you and Dave’s immediate family. Dave will be missed, but will not be forgotten because he always made everyone feel loved. He was a special soul and made everyone feel like they were family. I am glad I had the chance to spend some time with him and I will cherish all the memories we created. At this difficult time in your life, I pray that God will grant you the peace that you need to get through this. Sincere condolences!