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
My condolences to you Catherine, and to your family in this time of letting go and finding life without his physical presence.
Love and Light to the soul of Francis Edward Schwab
To Catherine, Paul, and David: my sincere condolences on the passing of your dear father. He was a colleague and friend of mine for many years in Labrador City. May you find comfort in the wonderful memories. Rest in peace old friend!
My heart was deeply saddened to learn of Francis’ passing. I had so many fond memories of my dear friend and mentor,simply recalling a concert he and I both organized in 2004 …Season of Song’ It involved several choirs, soloists etc and of course my duet with Francis which he helped me become quick study to learn it together and sing it with passion..A moment in time I will forever cherish in my heart.God love him.My heartfelt condolence to Francis’ children, his siblings and all who were touched by the wisdom and friendship of such a kind man at heart.You will be sadly missed my friend.Rest in peace.
Dear family of Francis
It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Francis. He was a friend to us in Labrador City as we shared singing in the church choir of Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
Deepest sympathy to Catherine, Paul and David as well as other family members.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
May he rest in peace.
Kay Whelan and family
My deepest sympathies for your loss. Dr. Schwab is the reason I did a biology degree. He was a fantastic teacher, and his passion for his subject matter ignited a lifelong interest for me. I am very sad to hear of his passing, but will never forget my time as his student.
Thank you for Francis’ obit. Although I didn’t have the privilege to know Francis before he became ill, I could see the beauty of his soul through his eyes when I visited him in his care facility. It is wonderful to read the many messages about what a wonderful man he was. I know mom remembers his generosity and gentleness when he and Dave helped at the house on the Skeena River. Our prayers and love go to the whole family. Sad for your loss, yet I think he is definitely now in the Light.
Thoughts and prayers..he was a great teacher ..mentor..always a smile…he will be missed by many here in Labrador City..all our love from the Williams family
Wayne Tucker:
March 12, 2016
Cathrine and Family we are so saddened to hear of your fathers passing
Our deepest condolences, to you and the family.
Wayne & Marie Tucker
So sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one. I knew him from outings with the Bird Counts in Labrador West and he was readily available to answer questions from the amateur birders. He will be remembered and missed.
To the Schwab Family
Out thoughts & prayers are with you at this difficult time.
We have great memories of Francis during our years in the church choir in Labrador city. There is no doubt that he will be singing with the Angels .
RIP. Francis
Aneas & Bernadette Decker
Former Labrador City.