Janet Elizabeth Schwartz

Janet Elizabeth Schwartz (maiden name Mechem) was born in Bethesda, Ohio, U.S.A., October 15, 1936. She died in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, September 1, 2025. She grew up with her father Paul, mother Anne, and older sister Shirley. During her childhood in Ohio, she was surrounded by extended family, all of whom played an important role in shaping her early years. As a girl she enjoyed climbing and reading in trees, swimming, and roaming the local woods and fields with her cousins. As a young woman she toured Europe and spun her love of art and literature into a Master of Arts degree in French, and opportunities for teaching.

She was a graduate of Muskingum College and enjoyed teaching. She then met her husband, Bernard Schwartz, at Ohio State University where she completed her masters degree. Their first date was a play, and they wed and moved to Edmonton, Alberta, Canada in 1965, when Bernard accepted a professorship at the University of Alberta. Soon after moving to Canada, Janet welcomed her first son David, followed by Brian, Amy, twins Jon and Dan, and much later Sarah. She had her hands full but embraced this new role and invested in her children completely.

She was a willing contributor to the community through Girl Guides, community sports teams, and community league. Her skills landed her voluntarily sewing numerous performance costumes for ballet, an incredible wedding dress for daughter Amy, and teaching all of the kids piano before they took formal lessons. There was no bottom to her well of patience and kindness; one of the rare times she expressed anger was hitting her head on the awkward kitchen cupboard. She loved gardening, hiking, camping, canoeing, cross-country skiing and attending the symphony and cultural events. She immensely enjoyed the quiet pleasure of reading. Her cooking and baking provided opportunities to chat over elegant family candlelit dinners several nights of the week! She was without drama and had a steady way about her, always with a smile ready and an encouraging word.

Her relationship with Bernard exemplified a loving and respectful partnership, and her commitment to family exceeded any other in her life. After 59 years of marriage, Mom and Dad still treasured chatting over a newspaper. Their mutual devotion and deep friendship was touching and inspiring. She taught us to be kind, practical and appreciative of the beauty in simple things. She supported our education, musical interests, dance and other hobbies. She was an intelligent and elegant woman who always took the high road, leading by example. She was always there at the other end of a phone call and with open arms and a banana bread, full cookie jar, or pie at the ready for every grandchild and an open door for loved pets.

Janet leaves behind son David (Elise), son Brian, daughter Amy (Alastair), son Jon (Shelley), son Daniel (Irene) and daughter Sarah (Dennis). Each of her eight adored grandchildren are grieving the loss of their very loving grandma.

Thank you to the compassionate staff at Holsome Residence, where Mom spent the last months of her life. If one wishes to make a donation in honour of Janet, please consider supporting the Edmonton Public Library.

Mom, you are the rock in the stream. We will care for each other as you cared for us. We will carry you within us always. We love you.