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Andy F. Schwarz

1938 - 2018

Andy F. Schwarz obituary, 1938-2018, Durango, CO

BORN

1938

DIED

2018

Andy Schwarz Obituary

In Memory of Andrew F. Schwarz

Andy lived life to the fullest with gusto and humor. He knew the joys of friendship. He was a happy guy, appreciating the simple pleasures of a laugh, a walk on the beach, a well-hit tennis ball, a shared story, a cup of good coffee.

Andrew F. Schwarz was born in 1938 in San Francisco and grew up in the building business. He was a natural leader and athlete-student body president, water polo champ, recognized in the Menlo-Atherton Sports Hall of Fame. He graduated from Stanford, served in the Air Force, and then started his own home-building business.

In 1975 he moved to Alaska to participate in the pipeline boom. The California developer met the Colorado environmentalist, and both their lives changed forever. He married Ann Dugan in 1978 and for 40 years they explored the world together, starting with kayaking wild and scenic rivers in Alaska. They roamed from the Arctic to the tropics, from 14,000 feet elevations to coral reefs, from the Serengeti to the Inca Trail to Maui. Most of all they enjoyed each other.

Moving to Durango, Colorado in 1982, Andy was instrumental in providing the Durango Arts Center with its present home on 2nd Avenue. He volunteered two years of his time, expertise, and persuasion with his subcontractors to turn a former car dealership into today's arts center.

Andy was a confirmed desert rat. He considered the canyons of Utah a spiritual home along with the Brooks Range of Alaska.

His active outdoor life was augmented by a rich intellectual life. He appreciated art, theater, opera, and was a non-stop reader. He was always the gentleman and the generous host, ready to pour a guest that stiff gin and tonic.

Andy's greatest attribute was his love for other people. He maintained close friendships from grade school on and was interested in people from every walk of life. He was beloved in return and will be sorely missed. He was a great guy and a wonderful man!

Andy died December 13, 2018, after a short but intense battle with cancer. His bright eyes, infectious smile, and indomitable spirit prevailed to the very end. He is survived by his wife Ann, his son Rush (Angela), granddaughters Taylor and Addison, brothers-in-law Doug, Robert, and Gregg Dugan, sister-in-law Barbara Kulju, and numerous nieces and nephews.

No services are planned at his request. Online condolences may be left at hoodmortuary.com. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please contribute in his name to the Durango Arts Center, 802 E. Second Avenue, Durango, CO 81301.

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Published by The Durango Herald on Dec. 17, 2018.
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Memories and Condolences
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2 Entries

My deepest sympathy to your family . May you keep in mind the hope of life everlasting which can help sustain you through this difficult time . John 17:3

Earnie Ray

December 18, 2018

Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the death of your dear love one may God give you strength to endure this most difficult time please read John

December 17, 2018

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