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BORN

1955

DIED

2016

FUNERAL HOME

Donohue Funeral Home - West Chester

1627 West Chester Pike

West Chester, Pennsylvania

Christopher Schwarz Obituary

Christopher Schwarz, formerly of West Chester Christopher Schwarz, 60, of Chattanooga, Tennessee passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 23, 2016. He was the devoted and loving husband of Mary Cecilia Donaghue Schwarz for 40 years. Chris was deeply committed to his family, his career, and his country. Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Charles W. Schwarz and Regina Gibbons Schwarz Lutz. A graduate of Bishop Shanahan High School, Chris received his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Widener University. He proudly served his country as a submariner in the United States Navy. With over 41 years in the nuclear industry, Chris had the vision and perseverance to provide excellent leadership in nuclear power. For the past year, Chris was the Site Vice President at Sequoyah Nuclear. Chris held a number of senior leadership positions, including Vice President at PSEG Salem/Hope Creek, Site Vice President at Arkansas Nuclear One, Site Vice President at Palisades Nuclear Plant, VP- Operations Support and General Manager for Entergy, and Station Director for Dominion Virginia Power. Chris had a passion for boating, fishing, and golfing. He loved watching the Philadelphia Eagles and “Rocky” movies with his sons. Chris enjoyed spending time with his four grandchildren. He is survived by his son, Christopher Schwarz of Norfolk, Virginia; his daughter, Lisa Kessinger of Ashburn, Virginia; and son, Robert Schwarz of Media, Pennsylvania. Chris is also survived by four grandchildren. Additionally, he is survived by ten siblings: Catherine Gold, Charles Schwarz, Rosemary Lamanna, Joseph Schwarz, Bernadette Nussbaum, Terrence Schwarz, Regina Falcone, Timothy Schwarz, Patrick Schwarz, and Thomas Schwarz. Chris was a man of great moral character and generosity. He will be greatly missed by all. Relatives and friends are invited to his Visitation 10:00-11:00 AM Saturday, October 1, 2016 at SS Simon & Jude Church, 8 Cavanaugh Ct, West Chester, PA 19382 followed by his Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Interment St. Agnes Cemetery. Donations can be made to Tragedy Assistance Plan for Survivors (TAPS), 3033 Wilson Blvd, Suite 630, Arlington, VA 22201 and/or Habitat for Humanity, P.O. Box 656, Chester, PA 19016. Arr. by The Donohue Funeral Home, 1627 West Chester Pike, West Chester, PA 19382, 610-431-9000. Online condolences www.donohuefuneralhome.com.

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Published by The Daily Local from Sep. 26 to Sep. 27, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
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John Swailes

September 20, 2022

I continue to think of Chris and Chris' extended family. I remember fondly the years we worked together. I miss his presence in the nuclear industry at large. He was a friend and a leader.

Joe Gallagher

September 20, 2019

Hey Mary,
I am always thinking of you and your family. Don't ever forget to "look up" when you are down because he is ALWAYS looking down over us!

Luv Ya,
Joe

Joe Gallagher

May 1, 2018

Hi Mary,
Just thinking of you!I still miss him.

John Swailes

January 3, 2017

Mary and Family,

I was shocked to just learn of Chris' death. I had spoken with him a couple times briefly about a year ago. He seemed energetic and happy at that time. He mentioned no health issues.

I greatly enjoyed the time all of us spent together although for Chris in particular it had a needless, undeserved, and painful turning point. I personally was always delighted and pleased with Chris work. I respected and appreciated it greatly. I think that the many superior outcomes in very difficult jobs all across the country amply indicate how talented Chris really was. I need say no more on that point.

I am living and working in Maryland at present, not so far from West Chester, PA. If there is ever anything I can do to be of service to you or the family, please do not hesitate to ask.

My deepest condolences....

Budd Hayes

October 13, 2016

I worked with Chris during the Millstone Recovery in the late 1990's. He was a honest leader and a compassionate man. He lived in Old Saybrook, Ct where I coached his son Robert or Bobby in Little League. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Schwarz family for your loss.

Peter Tarren

October 11, 2016

I was sad to hear of Chris' passing. He and I met on the INPO Senior Nuclear Plant Manager's course back in 2000 and I enjoyed his sense of humour along with his deep industry knowledge.
We met again this year preparing for an IAEA visit to Sequoyah and it was good to spend some time with him again.
Sincere condolences to Chris' family

Matt Kerns

October 9, 2016

Chris was a very intelligent and caring leader. He motivated people to be more than they thought they could be. He will be missed.

Karl and Amber Jones

October 5, 2016

Dear Mary and family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Please know you are all in our prayers.

Paul Gilbert

October 3, 2016

I'm a repairperson at Palisades and Chris was our first Entergy Site VP. He was a true professional and lead by example. He will be missed. RIP Chris.

Rita Chisum

October 2, 2016

Sat, May 21, 2011 Chris' 4-Wheeler "Adventure" near Russellville, Arkansas w Mike Chisum & WANO Team

Rita Chisum

October 2, 2016

May 21, 2011 Chris enjoying a 4-Wheeler Adventure w Mike Chisum & the WANO Team in Arkansas

Rita Chisum

October 1, 2016

May 21, 2011 Moccasin Gap near Russellville, Arkansas 4-Wheeler Adventure with Mike Chisum and WANO (World Association of Nuclear Operations) Team

Greg Daggett

October 1, 2016

Dear Schwarz Family, My deepest sympathy to you for this tragic loss. I worked at Palisades Nuclear Plant when Chris was Site VP. He was respected and loved by many there. He often was in the field and you could expect him to show up anywhere in the plant at any time providing coaching and help. I remember him all of a sudden being next to me in Containment. He was a fine and genuine man.

Mike Chisum

October 1, 2016

Chris was a true friend, an inspiring leader, and a great person. He leaves a legacy of high standards and always connecting with people in a way that made them want to do their best. We shared many fun and challenging times together. We will all really miss him.

Rita Chisum

October 1, 2016

Dear Mary and Family, We were truly heartbroken upon learning of Chris' unexpected passing. We are saddened and find it difficult to begin to even imagine the pain that you must be feeling. The world is so badly in need of good men like Chris that his leaving makes it even more difficult for those left behind. He is gone too soon. Although I was unable to get to know you, Mary, and Chris very well during the relatively short time that you called Arkansas your home, Mike's deep respect and enjoyment of working side-by-side with Chris at ANO (Arkansas Nuclear One) spoke volume's about the Man of Character that Chris was. A man of few words, Mike's glowing opinion of Chris told me that he was special, not only as a leader but also as a friend. Please know that our thoughts, prayers and love are with you as you release Chris' soul back to our Heavenly Father. May his legacy and the very best memories of Chris help to uphold and sustain you until you are reunited as a Family in our heavenly Home. With Heartfelt Sympathy and Prayers,

Kenda Knight

September 30, 2016

Our industry has lost a true leader! My deepest condolences to all of his family and friends. May his legacy live on through all who knew him.

Amine Chaar

September 30, 2016

My deepest condolences to Chris family and friends, he was a great man , will miss him

Bob Smith

September 29, 2016

Chris was a great guy: hardworking, dedicated, understanding and with solid values. It was a pleasure working him. He respected those that fought the good fight and was always on the ready for advise and counsel. He is one professional that will surely be missed.

Jerry Roberts

September 29, 2016

My name is Jerry Roberts and I worked for Chris at Sequoyah. I am attending special training on 9/30/16 that was dear to Chris's heart called "Good to Great"... He was a leader of men and had my utmost respect. Special man.....

Annette & Bill Burgess

September 29, 2016

Dear Mary Cecilia, Bill and I were so sorry to hear of Chris' passing. We have you and your family in our prayers as you miss Chris' presence in your lives. From the messages we have read, Chris was an inspiration to so many and a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend. May the knowledge that Chris is one with the Lord Jesus give you heartfelt consolations. With love, Annette (Netty) Donovan Donovan; husband Bill Bugess and the Burgess children, Megan, Katie, Billy, Mike & Kevin
PS: We are disappointed that we cannot be with you with for services as I am post-surgery a week and we now live in Greenville SC. We will have Chris, you and the family in our prayers!

Randy Ebright

September 29, 2016

Please accept our deepest sympathy. I had the pleasure of knowing Chris since 1990 when he worked at Peach Bottom. Throughout the years, Chris and my paths crossed may times. He was also a true professional and a good friend. He was a true gentleman and a class act. I will personally miss his smile, insights and words of encouragement. He and his family are in our prayers.....Randy and Debbie Ebright Granger In.

September 28, 2016

I am sorry for the loss of your Husband and Father. I have workplace memories that I cherish from the time he worked at Millstone. A personal thank you note from him hung in my cubicle that said "persistence pays dividends" stood as a reminder of a gentleman who set standards but wasn't afraid to roll up his sleeves and pitch in to help when needed and thank folks for their efforts. May you be comforted by the sharing of treasured memories. God bless.

Patty Small
CT

Gary Bill

September 28, 2016

I was able to meet Chris during employment and have nothing but respect for his open minded welcome and problem solving closure. A genuinely honest and warm heart Family guy that mixed it up in the trenches and remained an icon among the highest company ranks. My condolences for the Family

Finney

September 28, 2016

I am sorry for your loss. I spoke with Mr. Schwarz intermittently while he worked at PSEG. He often spoke proudly of his son in the Navy with me, a common occupation. He was always open to a quick discussion. - Pat

stu minahan

September 28, 2016

Chris was an outstanding guy. I always enjoyed seeing him during our times together at Entergy. He was so very bright and had a keen sense of humor. I was stunned to hear he had passed away. I offer my sympathy to the entire family. I sure will miss the occasional phone conversations.

tonya lighty

September 28, 2016

Please know you and the family are in my prayers and have my deepest condolences. Really enjoyed working with Chris at PSEG/NOSF Building

Bill Dixon

September 28, 2016

On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans (USSVI), I offer our sincere condolences on Christopher's passing. You and your loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers. We are forever grateful for Christopher's service to our country in the U.S. Submarine Service. To our Brother we say, Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch. May you rest in peace and may God bless your loved ones who remain. Thank you for your service to our country."
Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. - 2 Thess 3:16.

Christopher Schwarz, US Navy, Now on Eternal Patrol.
Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate
His record is now posted online in the Eternal Patrol file on the USSVI website.

Bill Dixon, National Chaplain United States Submarine Veterans, USSVI.

Robert Cordrey

September 28, 2016

Hand salute... Two! One of the best executive leaders I've had the pleasure to know. One of the few I've know in the nuclear business I'd take the hill for, no questions asked. RIP.

Nick Nichols

September 27, 2016

To the Schwarz Family,

On behalf of the Charleston Base SUBVETS and Swamp Fox Chapter SUBVETS WWII, I offer you our sincere condolences on Chris' passing. We grieve with you on the loss of your loved one and our shipmate. All SUBVETS and their families have your family in our thoughts and prayers. There is no expiration date on the back of our dolphins and Chris will always be remembered as a Brother of the Phin and a great Patriot.

(SS) Christopher Schwarz
US Navy Submarine Veteran
Now on Eternal Patrol
Sailor Rest Your Oar
Your Shipmates Have The Watch

Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate

Charleston Base Submarine Veterans
Nick Nichols, MTCM(SS) USN Ret.
Base Chaplain

Robyn Bentley

September 27, 2016

Chris was an amazing leader with tremendous vision and passion he brought every day. I worked with him at Indian Point and Palisades. We would have these discussions on a treadmill at the gym at IPEC about everything he believed he could improve. He would ask for feedback and always use it. Chris was gracious to everyone he met and loved by everyone up and down the ranks.

Bob Birley

September 27, 2016

Good guy that I trained to be an SRO at Peach Bottom. Always a gentleman but could really work the EOPs...God bless!

Robert Gallajer

September 27, 2016

I worked with your dad/husband at Pseg. I really appreciated what he did for us we were sad when he left Pseg. But this breaks are hearts. Our prayers are with you.

Jim Fuller

September 27, 2016

The unexpected news of the passing of Chris Schwarz has moved through Sequoyah Nuclear Plant, and the ripples will be felt for some time. But the ripples in our lives from his life will be much longer lasting. In the year I worked for Chris, he inspired me and others to work to a higher standard. He embraced Great, when many thought Good was enough. Chris' family are in our prayers.

Tony McMutuary

September 27, 2016

Chris was a very down-to-earth man who had a passion for excellence. I appreciated the way that he led the organization not only by words, but by example.

Dion McCreary

September 27, 2016

Sorry for your loss we were just getting to know him as a co worker(TVA) and fellow Submariner(We have the watch)Prayer for you and your family in this time of grief.
Blessings.
"Fair Winds and Following Seas."

Steve & Jean Mapa

September 27, 2016

Mary, we are saddened by the sudden passing of Chris. Be assured that you, Christopher, Lisa and Bobby are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Robert Christman

September 27, 2016

I had worked with Chris at Indian Point several years ago. A stand up guy that I respected enormously. A true leader who could be counted on to always do the right thing. He will be missed.

Michael Tipton

September 27, 2016

Though I new Chris for a short time our morning conversations will be missed. We usually got to work about the same time and walked in together. I made it a point to never talk about work, instead asked him about his family, and how he was adjusting. You can tell he loved his family because he wouldn't hesitate to say all was good. He always showed a positive attitude and I for one will miss those one on one conversations. He will be mised

Bill Truax

September 27, 2016

My deepest sympathy for the family. I knew Chris from our years together working at PECO and had the greatest respect for him. I know he will be greatly missed by many, friends and associates,

Damita Petty

September 27, 2016

Praying for Chris's family. Retired Arkansas Nuckear One employee

Bernadette Constant

September 27, 2016

A donation has been made in Uncle Chris' name to TAPS. Love and prayers.

anthony donell

September 27, 2016

I am so sorry for your loss to your family. I worked with Chris at Peach Bottom, and found him to be a great guy and gentleman. I know he will be missed greatly.

Margie and Al Rice

September 27, 2016

We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
With our deepest sympathy,

Marie Barton

September 27, 2016

My prayers go out to you and your family. I worked at ANO when Chris was out there.

Ron Phaup

September 27, 2016

Our condolences to the family. Chris was a knowledgeable and likeable person, he will be missed.

Ed Hayes

September 27, 2016

So sorry for your loss. I will keep him in my prayers.

Shelley Jennings

September 27, 2016

Lisa & Greg, please accept our deepest sympathy on the untimely passing if your dad. There are no words to express the shock. Please convey our sympathy to your mom and brothers and your dad's family. His love and accomplishments will be a guiding light for all of you.

Randal Martin

September 26, 2016

Chris was a true gentleman and a natural leader. I am so sorry for your loss, hopefully you can take a small portion of comfort knowing Chris made lasting positive impacts on myself and countless others.

Jerry Head

September 26, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Schwarz family. Chris was a good man and will be missed.

Tim Tullos

September 26, 2016

So sorry to hear about Chris leaving us. He had a great impact on us at ANO. Great man.

Mike Farmer

September 26, 2016

Chris was very caring and courageous. He will be missed. Prayers for the family.

Todd Chilcoat

September 26, 2016

My sincere and heart felt condolences to all of Chris' family. I'm deeply sorry for your loss. But what a legacy he leaves with his children and grandchildren. Not to mention the countless others lives Chris invested in. A true mentor, leader, role-model, and friend.

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Memorial Events
for Christopher Schwarz

Oct

1

Visitation

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

SS Simon & Jude Church

8 Cavanaugh Court, West Chester, PA

Oct

1

Funeral Mass

11:00 a.m.

SS Simon & Jude Church

8 Cavanaugh Court, West Chester, PA

Funeral services provided by:

Donohue Funeral Home - West Chester

1627 West Chester Pike, West Chester, PA 19382

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