John Alfred Schiwart

March 2, 1922 - March 11, 2010

John was born March 2, 1922 in Thorndale, Texas to parents, John C. Schiwart and Helena Zock Schiwart. The family moved to Port Arthur, Texas in 1925 where John attended Trinity Lutheran School and later graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1940. He began working for Gulf Oil Company, but volunteered in 1942 for duty in the U.S. Navy Air Force. John proudly served his country during World War II and was honorably discharged in 1946. John continued service for Gulf Oil Company from which he retired as a supervisor after 43 years of service. John meet Patricia Ann Kelly in 1949 and married in 1950. He and his wife built a home in Groves where they raised four lovely children. John loved his Lord and his church. He was a life-long member of Trinity Lutheran Church where he served on various boards including the Board of Elders. He loved music and faithfully served in the church choir for many years. John was a dear Christian witness and sent all his children through the Lutheran School. His years of service influenced many lives as he drove many young children to Sunday School and church in the church van. John was a family man and enjoyed traveling with his wife in his motor home. He loved raising flowers and gardening. He loved his brother-in-law, Lewis Henderson like a brother. John, known as Johnny by his friends, was a charter member of the "Harmony Exporters" barbershop chorus. He supported this group throughout his life. He was also a member of the American Legion. John was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Gertrude Schiwart, Helen Henderson and Louise Laurents. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Patricia Kelly Schiwart; one son, John Michael Schiwart and wife Paula of Beaumont; daughters, Cynthia Kirkpatrick and husband Gary of Killingworth, Connecticut, Rebecca Schiwart of Port Arthur, and Jennifer Schiwart McLain of Port Arthur; grandsons James Schiwart and Sean Isom; granddaughters, Gretchen Kirkpatrick, Amanda Raffurty and Joanne Schiwart and many nieces and nephews and close friends. Memorials can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church New Van Fund Ministry or the Home Operating Fund.