Edward Schwerdt

Edward George Schwerdt, 99, Topeka, Kansas, diminutive in stature but giant of heart, passed away peacefully Monday, February 5, 2024. Ed was born May 11, 1924, to George and Mary Melchior Schwerdt. He graduated from Capitol Catholic High School (Hayden High) in 1941 and attended Strickler’s Business College. On January 1, 1943, Ed enlisted in the US Navy serving in WWII at the Advanced Amphibious Repair Base in Plymouth, England through 1944. He was honorably discharged as a Yeoman 2nd class in 1946. Ed earned a degree in Economics and Accounting in 1947 from Central Missouri State College. Ed’s career was with Santa Fe Railway, beginning in 1941, just out of high school, later as personal secretary to the President in Chicago, and ending with his retirement in 1984 as Assistant Superintendent of Car Accounting in Topeka with 43 years of service. On June 7, 1948, Ed and Loretta Manhart were united in marriage at Assumption Catholic Church enjoying almost 74 years together prior to her death May 19, 2022. Ed and Loretta were founding members of St. Matthew Catholic Church and he was currently a member of Christ The King Catholic Church. He was a member of Knights of Columbus Council No. 534 since 1942 holding all council offices and chairs; he was an honorary life member of the James W. Gibbons Fourth Degree Assembly, a member since 1959, having served as Faithful Navigator, State Secretary of K of C, as well as many other state offices. Ed was a life member of the American Legion, past president of the German American Club of Topeka, member of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia, Republican Precinct Committeeman for more than 25 years and volunteered at St. Francis Hospital, the VA, and Let’s Help. Ed enjoyed his German traditions, afternoon cribbage and beer with friends. He also enjoyed trips to Chicago and Notre Dame football with his sons, grandsons and best friend, Ed Rooney. Ed led a full and active life dedicated to his faith, family, friends, country and the Topeka community and all were better for it. Friends recognized his car by the bumper sticker “Life’s too short to drink cheap beer.” Grateful to have shared Ed’s life are his children, Barbara Schwerdt, Greg Schwerdt, Mark Schwerdt (Cindy), Chris Schwerdt (Candy) and Kent Schwerdt (Julie); 8 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Mary Katherine White and Rita Barnett. Ed was also preceded in death by his daughter, Marcia Schwerdt, grandson, Corey Schwerdt, granddaughter, Hanna Schwerdt and siblings, George Schwerdt III and Florence Leiker. The James W. Gibbons Fourth Degree Assembly will present the Chalice Ceremony at 5 p.m. Thursday, February 15, at Christ the King Catholic Church followed by the rosary led by the Knights of Columbus. Visitation will be from 5:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. that evening at the Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at noon Friday, February 16, at Christ the King Church. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Let’s Help and Christ the King Catholic Church sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Edward Schwerdt

May 11, 1924 - February 5, 2024