Francis Edward Schwab passed away at the age of 63 on Sunday, March 6, 2016, with family at his side, following a long struggle with brain cancer. He was born on November 20, 1952 in Summerland, BC, and graduated from Nechako Valley Secondary in Vanderhoof, BC in 1970. He went on to earn a PhD from the University of British Columbia in 1986, and was the biology instructor at the Labrador College/College of the North Atlantic in Labrador City, NL for more than 20 years. While living in Labrador, he published 14 papers on the interactions between local birds, small mammals, and their habitats.
Francis is greatly missed by his children, Catherine (Devon Tucker), Paul (Chelsea Smith), and David; his grandson, Emmett-James; his sisters and brothers, Trudy (Bill) Moul, Jim (Barbara), David (Barbara), Greg (Yvonne), and Wendy (Murray) Mortson; his many nieces and nephews; other extended family, and his friends.
His funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Parish in Victoria, BC on Monday, April 11, 2016 at 11:00 am, with a reception to follow in the Parish Hall. His remains will be interred in the Vanderhoof Municipal Cemetery with his parents, Wendel and Mary (Zünti) Schwab.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Wildlife Federation (http://www.cwf-fcf.org/), or to the Music Ministry at the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Labrador City, NL (for more information, please call the Parish Office at (709) 944-2289, or Frank Saville at (709) 944-5636 after hours).
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall’s Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
47 Responses
I’m truly saddened to learn of Francis’ passing. Though it’s been 35 years since I last saw him, I fondly remember the many hours we spent together while in grad school; be it in serious and not so serious chats over beer or in the deep north woods while hunting. A man of exceptional intellect; inquisitive nature; a good wrist shot; and most of all, a wonderful, dry sense of humor. My deepest condolences to the Schwab family.
So sorry to hear of Francis’ passing! He was a good friend and colleague at the College of the North Atlantic, Labrador West Campus. Condolences to his family! Rest in peace, my friend.
I’m so sorry to hear of Francis’s passing. He had a significant impact on my life as my biology professor at CONA. I have always really appreciated the guidance he gave me in choosing a career and have thought of and spoken of him often over the last 10 years.
My sincere condolences.
Lacey Rose
To the Schwab family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of sadness. We certainly have great memories of Francis as a colleague and a friend. He sure could talk and loved a great conversation … He was a great intellect and contributed to the education of many of the youth who attended the College of North Atlantic in Lab West. He was a great person, no doubt will be missed and may you all cherish the many memories you have of him.
Holly and Gordon Saunders
Former of Labrador City
So sorry for your sad loss. Condolences to you all.
Very sorry to hear of Francis’s passing. It is our prayer those left to mourn will find comfort in his faith during this difficult time. Our deepest sympathies are extended to his family .
Sending my thoughts and prayers to the Schwab family during this difficult time. I have fond nemories of his stories he would tell and he was by far one of the best teachers I ever had to have the pleasure of having. May he be at peace now.
Sorry to hear of The passing of Mr.Schwab,sincere sympathy to his family.
Sending my prayers to Francis’ family during this difficult time, may his love for you and loving memories you have with him help to comfort you. Thinking of Catherine, Paul and David, and praying for you as you deal with your father’s passing. RIP Francis.
An honour to have known this man, played hockey with him and had many great conversations.
Truly sorry to hear of his passing.
Rest Well Friend