It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Herman Schwall on August 5th, 2021, at 94 years of age. Herman was a beloved husband, brother, uncle, stepfather, and friend to whomever he met.
Herman was born in Wilkes-Barre, PA in 1926. In 1941 the Schwall family, with their 7 children, moved to Ypsilanti, MI.
Herman graduated from Detroit University as a Dean’s List student with a business degree. He served in both the US Army and the US Airforce, being honorably discharged from both.
While being based in Japan he became proficient in Japanese, and at least nine other languages, which became a major benefit when he re-entered the private sector at Ford Motor Company. Employed at Ford for 46 years, he was based in Detroit and New York City and travelled the world as part of his position.
Entertaining his family and friends with his keen ability to play the piano was always a time for a family sing-along.
Herman Schwall married the love of his life Dyan DeCristofaro. They travelled extensively from their Manhattan home base, eventually settling in Vero Beach, FL. Dyan entered eternal rest in March of 2020.
We are the recipients of 94 years of a life to be admired, the laughs to remember, the love to be shared, and the gratitude we feel for a brother left to our memories. Herman’s family and friends will continue to honor his legacy by living their lives to the fullest.
Herman is survived by two brothers, Don (and wife Patricia) Schwall of Pittsburgh, PA and Fred Schwall of Cleveland, OH, as well as four stepsons and two stepdaughters including James (and wife Amaryn) DeCristofaro of Alexandria, VA, John DeCristofaro of Miami, FL, Christopher (and wife Margaret) DeCristofaro of Southampton, NY, Joseph (and wife Maria) DeCristofaro of Southampton, NY, Catherine DeCristofaro of San Francisco, CA, and Susan Harris of Mountain Home, AR.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all friends at Sea Watch for their love and support.