Edward "Ed" Allen Schwartz, 68, of Lewistown, Montana, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, surrounded by family. Ed was born on March 15, 1957, in Malta, Montana, to Ingelef and Francis Schwartz. He spent most of his childhood on the family farm, a place that shaped his love of the outdoors and his appreciation for hard work. When his father became ill, the family moved into town, but Ed always carried the spirit of rural Montana with him. One of his favorite memories from his youth was riding his tan buckskin and paint horse, Wellington D, a horse he seemed to operate permanently at high speed.
Ed lived his life by a simple code: take pride in your work, do the right thing, help others when they need it, and be honorable. Those values guided him through a remarkable 41-year career in the grocery industry. At just 19, he became the youngest meat manager in Buttery's company history. He later continued his career with Albertsons, where he was known for running an exceptionally clean and well-maintained department. His high standards earned him multiple accolades, including awards that once included both a gun and a motorcycle.
Outside of work, Ed's heart belonged to the outdoors. He was an avid hunter who found peace and joy in the mountains. He loved fishing, especially with his grandkids and his longtime buddies. He was a passionate gun collector and bought a new toy any chance he could. Ed also enjoyed shooting pool on local leagues and he was always trying to perfect his game. Above all, Ed loved his family, and nothing made him happier than time spent with his children and grandchildren.
Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Ingelef and Francis; and his sister, Marlene (Jack). He is survived by his son, Josh (Megan); and daughters, Stacy (Ronald) and Jenny; and his grandchildren, Madelyn, Henry, Ethan, Kenyon, Elliott, Emerson, Layken, Jade, and Jensen; the mother of his children and lifelong friend, Diana; siblings, Mike (Molly), Jim (Barb), Joanne (George), John, and Patty; along with many nephews and nieces whom he cared for deeply.
A funeral service will be held at Creel Funeral Home in Lewistown on December 27, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. A celebration of life will follow at Central Feed Grilling Company from 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Those wishing to honor Ed may make memorial donations to Central Montana Medical Center Hospice, Fergus County Council on Aging, or the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Creel Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements. Ed's family and friends can share memories and condolences at
www.creelfuneralhome.comPublished by Lewistown News-Argus from Nov. 19 to Nov. 20, 2025.