Obituary of Donald W. Schwartz

Donald Wright Schwartz passed away on September 10, 2023, at age 87 after a prolonged illness. He was the most beloved husband for 63 years of Bobbie (Roberta A. Schwartz), loving father of Ronald Schwartz (Aida) and Laurie Poole (Bruce), and proudest grandfather of Andrew Poole and Adam Poole. Don was a loving uncle to nephew Dr. John Kotler, niece Ellen Kotler, and great-uncle to Dr. Katie Kotler and Matthew Kotler. Aside from family, Don’s greatest love was photography. His favorite subjects include landmarks along historic Route 66 and old barns (every old barn that he passed was photographed). Don loved sports and was an avid UCLA and Dodgers fan. He was a dedicated coach of many youth basketball, football, softball and baseball teams. Don also had a passion for old cars and at one time had quite the car collection. He had a talent for fixing up the house and working in the garden. According to the neighbors, Don’s roses were the most beautiful on the street. He and Bobbie enjoyed traveling all over the world, taking photographs and enjoying different cuisines. They cherished the time spent with their children, grandchildren, and all the Airedales. Because he had to support his photography addiction, when he was 16, Don started working at Selectile of California, a tile subcontracting business. Don worked his way up to becoming owner of the company in the mid-1980s, and eventually retired in 2000. He was highly respected in the tile business. Don will be remembered as a man with endless kindness, patience, generosity, and love. He always saw the best in everyone and led by example. He had a healthy sense of humor and always had a twinkle in his eye. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to World Central Kitchen: https://donate.wck.org/ *Update: A celebration of Don’s amazing life will be held on Sunday, October 8, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Universal Hotel, 333 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, CA - Terrace Room A and B. Casual attire (Route 66 shirts encouraged). Please RSVP by September 29, 2023, to Laurie Poole at dws.celebration@gmail.com