Rosemary Schwartz (nee Johnston), 73, a longtime Forest Park resident, died on May 15, 2017 in Mesa, Arizona. Born on Feb. 7, 1944 in Scotland, this wee lassie earned her degree in nursing, practiced in London, and later headed to the states, arriving through New York Harbor in late 1966.
She worked at La Grange Hospital and met a handsome young golf instructor, Bob Schwartz, fell in love and got married. She soon transferred to Gottlieb Memorial Hospital in Melrose Park where she spent over 25 years. The couple raised their three children in Forest Park and opened their home to all of their friends and family.
Many also knew her as the Forest Park district school nurse during those years. She loved Forest Park and the sense of family that this small town embraced. She was a spitfire and would keep you in line, but she was a loving, caring and giving person, with a really cute accent. She always sacrificed her needs for the good of her family and others.
In her younger days, she loved to ski and was a fixture at St. Bernardine’s Monday Night Bingo (followed by a good laugh over coffee with friends at Venture Restaurant, later Ambrosia). She continued to enjoy trips to the casino, and the annual Vegas trip was a highlight. One of her truest passions was her affiliation with Mishka Productions and the Celebrate Your Life conferences. The CYL family meant so much to her and gave her a greater sense of purpose.
She had a real zest for life, which will live on in the cherished memories shared by those who knew her and loved her.
Rosemary was the wife of Robert “Bob” Schwartz; mother of Christina “Tina” Schwartz and Joshua Morin, Heather (Phil) Kantzler and Robert “Bobby” Schwartz Jr.; Nana to Logan, Lucas and Liam Kantzler; mama to fur-daughter Cici; grandma to grand-dog Bella; sister of Margaret (George) Eaton, Betty (John) McGuckin, Kathleen Carty and Jim Johnston; an honorary-sister to Iris Rizzo, Ruth Millar and Ann Murray; and aunt of many nieces, nephews and family associates. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Rose Johnston; and her brother, John A. “Jackie” Johnston.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 23 from 3 to 8 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. at Forest Park’s Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home, 7319 Madison St.
In her final act of service and kindness, Rosemary donated her organs for scientific research in developing treatments and cures for lung disease. In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations be made to the American Lung Association in her honor. Additional information is available at 708-366-2200.
