The Recorded Funeral link: https://youtu.be/NL8U0UOS4yY

Harold Eugene Schwarz, lovingly known as Gene, passed from this life on April 26, 2025. Born on June 16, 1941, in Fargo, North Dakota to Harold Schwarz and Edith Bellamy. Gene lived a life defined by resilience, devotion, and a generous heart. His departure came unexpectedly, but the strength of his spirit and the depth of his love remain a lasting gift to all who knew him.

In 1951, Gene's family moved to Harvey, North Dakota, where his parents purchased and operated a bakery that became a beloved family business, later continuing under the stewardship of Gene's brother, Chuck, and his wife Susan. Even at a young age, Gene faced life's challenges with courage, having been paralyzed for a time by polio — an experience that would go on to deeply influence his life's work and passions.

Gene and his friend, Jim Deck, entered the U.S. Navy in 1961.  Upon their return in 1965, they moved to Washington state. There, Gene would meet the love of his life, Judith M. Schwarz.  On December 23, 1966, Gene and Judy married. Together, they built a home centered around love, service, and community. Their love gave life to their sons, Stephen and Michael. Gene was an active father — heavily involved in Boy Scouts with Steve and on the soccer fields with Mike.

Gene and Judy made a lasting impact on their Tacoma area community. They founded Sound Medical in Tacoma, Washington — a pioneering facility known for being the first of its kind with patient-accessible design and the largest showroom for medical equipment on the West Coast. Both of his sons worked alongside him early in their careers, sharing in his commitment to patient-focused service.

Gene's advocacy for people with disabilities was personal and profound. As a member and leader of the national organization MED (Medical Equipment Distributors), he worked tirelessly to advance the care and dignity of disabled individuals. His work extended to advocating with legislators in Washington, D.C., in support of children and adults living with disabilities. His philanthropic efforts, often carried out quietly and anonymously, especially benefited wheelchair-bound children and programs such as Muscular Dystrophy camps.

Gene was a proud member of Rotary in Washington, living by its motto of "Service Above Self" both in spirit and action. His greatest pride and joy remained his family, especially his beloved wife Judy, whom he cherished with all his heart.

A gifted cook, Gene's culinary talents were well known and generously shared, from backyard barbecues to gourmet feasts. His kitchen was often the heart of celebrations with family and friends.

Gene and Judy returned to Harvey often over the years for hunting, fishing and enjoying time with family and friends.  They left their beloved Washington community in 2023 to live full time in Harvey.

Gene is survived by his wife, Judy; his sons Stephen Schwarz (wife Teresa) and Michael Schwarz (wife Katherine); his grandchildren and a great-grandchild; his brother, Charles "Chuck" Schwarz of Harvey; and his sister, Cheryl Stafford of Harvey, along with greatly loved nieces and nephews and their respective families. He was preceded in death by his father Harold Schwarz, his mother Edith Bellamy, and his sister Cindy (Kopseng).

Gene's life was a testament to resilience, generosity, and boundless love, leaving a legacy that will be treasured by all who knew him.  He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:
Hav-It (Harvey Area Vocational Instructional Training)
409 West Brewster Street
Harvey, North Dakota 58341-1466

Service Information:

Visitation: Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Central Time)
Hertz Funeral Home, Harvey, North Dakota
Funeral Service: Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. (Central Time)
Hertz Funeral Home, Harvey, North Dakota