W.J. (Jack) Schwan

W.J. (Jack) Schwan passed away Sunday, December 30, 2017, peacefully surrounded by his family. A memorial service will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 3, at Wilkirson-Hatch Bailey Chapel. Jack was born at the family home on N. 19th in Waco to William John Schwan and Priscilla Garrett Schwan on November 10, 1937. As the youngest of 3 children and the only brother, Jack was loved well by many from a very early age. He graduated from Waco High School in 1957 and attended Baylor University prior to joining the United States Forestry Service in Sand Point, Idaho. He also served in the U.S. Naval Reserve and was a 32nd Degree Mason. In 1958 he married the love of his life, Beverly Clifton, in what began a lifelong partnership in family and business. Jack was very driven and a visionary in the auto, finance and real estate business on Franklin Avenue for almost 40 years. He maintained a stellar reputation selling cars to multiple generations of Waco families. In 1969 he bought the Castle where the family lived and operated their businesses for decades. During these years, he was especially driven to restore and preserve the Cottonland Castle to its original splendor. In 1978 he accomplished his goal by completing the project and obtaining permanent Historical designation. That same year the home was featured in Texas Homes. After retirement, Jack found more time to enjoy his greatest passion which was his family. He loved spending time with his daughters, grandchildren, extended family and friends. Jack forged very special relationships with all three of his grandchildren by giving them his time and attention. They each adored him and will always cherish their memories. He loved fast cars, motorcycles and boats and was probably most at home spending time at the RWCC Marina and on Lake Waco. Jack is survived by his wife, Beverly; daughters, Kim Littlewood and husband, David, and Karen Schechter of Waco; three grandchildren, Shelby Schwan Littlewood of Waco, Aaron Joshua Schechter and Jessica Rose Schechter of College Station; and one sister, Barbara Perkins of Waco. A special thanks to Bluebonnet Hospice Services and Sodalis Memory Care for their loving compassionate care to our beloved Jack. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.