Obituary of Ardath Shannon Schwartz

Ardath Shannon Schwartz passed away peacefully at home on November 4th, with her loving husband, Dick and son, Mark, holding her hands, just one month from her 90th birthday.

Ardath was born to Hugh and Anna Jane Shannon in California and grew up with a joyful childhood in rural Pacoima and Simi Valley with her brother, Dale and sister, Patricia. Ardath spoke fondly of her childhood caring for the many animals that her family raised. 

Working at Rocketdyne at the dawn of the “Space Race”, Ardath met the love of her life there. Together, Ardath and Dick had three children, Steve, Linda, and Mark, and raised a loving family. Ardath loved caring for her family and supporting her husband throughout their many moves across country during his aerospace career, ultimately living in seven states and moving a total of 17 times. Ardath’s warm and friendly personality made it easy for her to make new friends during these moves. She found great joy in social gatherings of any size and could light up any group in conversation.

Above all, Ardath valued family togetherness. Ardath gave so much of herself to her family and friends and did it with joy and enthusiasm, even when she was a caregiver to her own mother who had multiple sclerosis. Always full of energy and very active, Ardath enjoyed bowling, tennis, snow skiing, water skiing, hiking, kayaking and sailing. At home when she had free time, she enjoyed gardening, sewing, crafting and was unbeatable at cards.

Throughout living all over the country, Ardath always came back to California where she felt most at home. As their children grew, the family enjoyed camping in the Sierra Nevada mountains together where they found their beloved mountain cabin - a cherished home which became the gathering spot for family including six grandkids for over 30 years. Ardath loved hosting family trips and is remembered for her nurturing love that poured out through a warm, inviting home, family dinners, her clever wit, and being ready for each adventure the family went on. Ardath will be dearly missed by all.

Ardath's memorial service will be held on January 27th, 2024 starting at 10:00 AM at the King of Glory Lutheran Church.  If you would like to attend via Zoom, please click here , password: KOG