Obituary of Richard Jacob Schweitzer

Richard J. Schweitzer, age 73, of Watersmeet, Michigan passed away Saturday, October 25, 2014. Services will be at 4:00 P.M. Saturday, November 8, 2014 at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Visitation will be from 2:00 P.M. on Saturday until the time of service at the funeral home. Richard J. Schweitzer was born January 30, 1941 in Chicago, Illinois to Richard and Ella (Janisch) Schweitzer. Richard graduated from St. Rita's high school in Chicago, Illinois and as a young man began his career in the aeronautical field in California. He married the love of his life, Debra Lynn Ironside, on October 9, 1976 in Wisconsin Rapids. He worked at Consolidated Papers Inc. as the Director of Transportation for many years and finished his career as the General Manager for Castle Rock Container "with a degree of excellence we have come to expect". Richard lived his life "burning the candle at both ends". He loved spending time in the U.P. at the family lake home, taking frequent hunting and fishing trips, riding motorcycles, golfing and playing cards. At the age of 70, he fulfilled his lifelong ambition of becoming a licensed pilot and enjoyed the freedom it offered. Richard is survived by two sons: Jacob Schweitzer and Brennan (Paew) Schweitzer; two daughters: Kindra (Nathan) Evans and Natalie Schweitzer; two grandchildren: Melanie and Sonya; sister, Janet (Bill) Alesauskas. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Debra and his parents Richard and Ella Schweitzer. The family would like to thank the Civil Air Patrol and all of our cherished friends and family who have provided us with love and support. Online condolences may be expressed at www.taylorfuneralhome.net. Memorials will be given to the Civil Air Patrol.