Charles Schwarz, 86, of Harvey, passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at SMP Medical Center of Harvey. Funeral services will be held at First Lutheran Church of Harvey on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. Visitation will be held Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Hertz Funeral Home of Harvey. Burial will take place at Sunnyside Cemetery later this spring.

Charles "Charlie" Schwarz was born February 25, 1940, in Fargo, North Dakota, to Harold and Edith (Bellamy) Schwarz. In 1951, his family moved to Harvey, where his parents purchased and operated a local bakery that became a cornerstone of the community. Charlie later took over the family business, proudly continuing its legacy for many years until its sale in January 1997. Following that, he worked alongside his wife, Susan, at Amberland Foods until they sold the business in 2011.

Charlie and Susan were united in marriage on January 28, 1967, in Fessenden. Together they built a life rooted in family, hard work, and community. Susan passed away on December 15, 2018.

Charlie was a member of First Lutheran Church of Harvey and was actively involved in the community throughout his life. He was a former member of the Kiwanis Club and belonged to the Harvey Wildlife Club and a 64-year member of Wells Eagles Aerie #3080. Charlie had a passion for the outdoors and generously shared that passion with others. He dedicated time to helping with hunter safety, mentoring, and guiding younger generations, and promoting safe and responsible outdoor practices.

Charlie will be remembered as a friendly, familiar face to many, a man who valued connection, conversation, and community. Through his businesses and his involvement in local organizations, he made countless friends and formed lasting connections that enriched both his life and the lives of those around him.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, playing bingo, and Texas Hold'em, and cherished time spent at his lake cabin in Pick City. Those who knew Charlie will always remember the joy he brought to simple moments, whether it was his enthusiastic "Alllright!" after a winning hand of poker or the excitement in his voice when he proudly called out "BINGO."

Charlie is survived by his children: Robert (JoAnn) Schwarz of Detroit Lakes, MN; Michele (Nate) Hastings of West Fargo, ND; and Janell (Jason) Gange of Karlsruhe, ND; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and his sister, Cheryl Stafford of Harvey.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Susan; his brother, Harold "Gene" Schwarz; and his sister, Cindy Kopseng.