James R. Schwark

Dr. James R. Schwark, a beloved educator, husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on February 11, 2023, in Oklahoma City. He was 77 years old.

Born on August 2, 1945, in Marion, Indiana, Dr. Schwark was a lifelong learner and teacher who dedicated his life to education and helping others. He received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Indiana University in 1967, followed by a Master of Arts in Business Administration from Ball State University in 1976, and a Doctor of Education from Oklahoma State University in 2002.

Dr. Schwark spent most of his career in education, serving as the Dean of the Academic Division of Business at Oklahoma City Community College from 2001 to 2012, and as an Adjunct Professor at Southern Nazarene's School of Adult Studies from 1992 to 2001. He was also an Adjunct Training Staff at The Support Center for the Non-Profit from 1986 to 1990.

In addition to his academic work, Dr. Schwark was a senior-level management consultant and technical trainer for A.T.&T./Lucent Technologies in Indianapolis and Oklahoma City from 1967 to 2001. He was also a member of the Oklahoma City University Meinders School of Business Executive Board and served on committees for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Dr. Schwark was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Dorothea Schwark, and his brother, Dr. Tom Schwark. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 29 years, Charlene, his sister-in-law Lee Schwark, as well as his children Coley (Nancy) Kiser of Columbus, NE, Kerrie Girten of Oklahoma City, OK, and Ben (Jen) Kiser of Lincoln, NE, nephews, and their families.

In his later years, Dr. Schwark pursued his passion for ham radio and became an accredited examiner by the American Radio Relay League, connecting with operators across the country. He was known for his kind and caring nature, and was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church, participating in bible studies and men's groups.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:14

Dr. Schwark will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather (Bapa) as well as a passionate educator and lifelong learner. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, dogs, and all those whose lives he touched during his long, successful career.