Wilfred Martin Schwerin's Obituary
Historic SF Family Patriarch Dies - Wilfred Schwerin, 4th generation San Franciscan, died on June 28, 2010 in San Mateo, CA. 98 years of age, he was with his family at the time of passing. Born June 6, 1912 in his grandmother’s, Elizabeth Schwerin, home on Naples Street, San Francisco to Father: William J Schwerin and Mother: Catherine. He is survived by Sisters: Betty Hansen, Willits, CA, and Mary Ann Reis, Torrance, CA, Children: Marlene Gralicer, Robert Schwerin, Christine Quigley, his First Wife: Alyce Schwerin, (married 25 years) and many Grandchildren, Great- Grandchildren, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews. His ashes will rest with his second wife, Katherine Schwerin, at 12 o’clock on the Elk’s clock fountain at Skylawn Memorial Park, on the corner of HWY 92 and Skyline Blvd in San Mateo. He and Katherine were married 38 years. Occupation: Owned and operated Schwerin Brake Service on Bush Street, SF, for 47 years. Began by his father, William J. Schwerin, followed by his son, Robert Schwerin. Organizations : Loyal Elks Lodge 1112 member for 53 years, Proud Free Mason for over 50 years, Volunteered at SSF Kaiser Hospital for 19 years. Raised near the historic family dairy farm and nursery, now part of the Cow Palace parking lot where Schwerin St exists today, Wilfred was a proud native of San Francisco. Although he was a “man’s man”, his love for the outdoors and everything living, left him an endearing soft spot for animals and flowers. One could not visit his home without leaving with something grown in his garden. During orchid season, he would go out of his way to share them with many of his friends. He cherished his relationships with his family, Elk’s brothers, neighbors, friends and all the wonderful individuals who were part of his life. Whether it was one of his dogs, parrots, monkey or the backyard duck, he showed great appreciation, kindness and love towards them all. He was from a generation who respected a man not for his occupation, but for his kindness and integrity. He took enormous pride in being physically and mentally strong and alert until the moment of passing. As with his ancestors and decedents, he was inquisitive, athletic and artistic. In addition to his love for automobiles, history, and technology, he was a pilot and fascinated by aviation. His artistic abilities were expressed in photography, painting and mechanical innovation. He was an avid hunter, snow skier, water skier and sailor. Living and playing on the water was a dream that he maintained for most of his adult life. He will be greatly missed and remembered well. As per Wilfred’s wishes, there will be no service and no reception. His ashes will be place next to his wife at 3pm on Tuesday, July 6,2010, followed by the planting of a memorial navel orange tree in the front yard of his home. Memorial donations can be made to the San Mateo Elk’s Lodge #1112, 229 W. 20th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403, 650-345-4886. Contact Robyn Gralicer 650-345-2682 for further information. "Saving a person’s life is generally considered a miracle, but sometimes it’s merely depriving a man of God’ s intentions . Thank you, God, for rescuing him so quickly.”
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