It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James Joseph Schwegel, “Jim”, age 81, of Palm Bay, Florida. He passed away in his home on Thursday, July 17th, 2025 in the comforting presence of his family. He was born in Millville, NJ on July 18th, 1943, to Joseph and Berdina Schwegel. He had been a resident of Palm Bay for 33 years following base assignments in Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Greene County, Ohio, Rhein Main Air Force base in Frankfurt, Germany, Dover Air Force Base in Delaware and other military installations.

James grew up with an insatiable curiosity about the world and an unwavering sense of duty to his country. At the age of 21, even as the conflict in Vietnam began, he embarked on what would become a lifetime of service, enlisting in the United States Air Force. Over the course of his 26 distinguished years, he served as a radar technician, helping to safeguard his fellow airmen and his nation with his expertise, precision and calm under pressure. It was in the service of his country that he met Penny Rae Wiesshoff, another military service member. They were wed on December 17th, 1979. Together they traveled the world and embarked on their greatest adventure: starting a family.

After retiring from the Air Force at the rank of Master Sergeant—and never one to sit still— he

continued another professional career as an electronics technician with Spectrum for a number of years as his engineering skills were considered an asset to the company’s operations. He was a brilliant and thoughtful man who could fix anything, from repairing complex military radar equipment to his child’s favorite toy. James will always be fondly remembered as a proud Air Force veteran and a devout family man. He filled every day with laughter, warmth, wisdom and unforgettable stories.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Penny; his children James Jr., Mary, Sarah, Erin, Jessica and Chelsea; his grandchildren Samantha, Rachael, Dawson, Taylor, Lily, Mila, Eris and Jameson; his great grandchildren; and his sister Sandy Schneider. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Berdina and his sister JoAnn.

Arrangements are under the direction of Millennium Cremation Service. Condolences may be shared online at www.millenniumcremationservice.com