In loving memory of

Rhett Jarard Schwandner
December 5, 1947 - July 26, 2014

Rhett Jarard Schwandner, 66, of Washington, Indiana, peacefully passed away in his sleep on July 26, 2014 in the Evansville home of his daughter and close friend, Cassie and Denise Schwandner. Visitation will be held at Ed Lee Mortuary in Washington on Thursday, July 31, 2014 from 4-7 PM. A memorial service to celebrate his love for life and the powerful impact he had on all who knew and loved him will commence immediately after the visitation hours at 7:00 PM. Rhett was born on December 5, 1947 in Washington, Indiana to Robert Joseph Schwandner and Rita McGrath Schwandner. He graduated from Washington High School in 1966 where he played varsity football. He followed in his father''s footsteps and worked for many years before retiring from CSX Railroad. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War and was awarded two Bronze Stars for heroic service and a Purple Heart for being wounded in action. He was involved in the Washington chapter of the American Legion. He is survived by his daughter, Cassie Schwandner of Evansville; his brothers, Robert Judd Schwandner of Cape Coral, Florida; Rodney Joseph Schwandner and his wife, Debbie, of South Bend, Indiana; Robert Joseph Schwandner, Jr. and his wife, Shannon, of Cape Coral, Florida; Alfred V. Springer III and his wife, Melinda, of Austin, Texas; and his sister, Cynthia Springer and her husband Jerry Parks of Lake Oswego, Oregon. In addition, he will be immensely missed by his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews as well as a multitude of friends. All who were introduced to Rhett, were profoundly affected by his zest for life and his love of the outdoors. Rhett will forever be remembered as a loving father, devoted brother, and true friend. He was an avid hunter, fisher, and camper. He lived life to the fullest and rode his motorcycle with passion and enjoyed cross-country trips to the National Parks. He was known in his neighborhood for standing under the recreation center during thunderstorms, so he was able to admire the splendor of nature from all angles with an uninhibited view. He leaves behind a legacy of love and adventure. May the twinkle in your eyes and the devilish grin forever shine on.

Tributes

Bill & Terri Truelove wrote on Aug 3, 2014:

"(No guestbook text available)"

Beenwar wrote on Aug 2, 2014:

"I am so sorry for your terrible loss. This is an especially difficult time to find comfort from anywhere. I hope you find comfort in what Our Creator promises. He promises we will soon see our loved ones again in the restored paradise earth. Please try to find a little time to consider the warm thoughts for you from the God of all comfort at Isaiah 25:8, 9; Acts 24:15 and Revelation 21:3, 4."

Carolyn wrote on Jul 31, 2014:

"Our thoughts and prayers have been with all of you. Dan and Carolyn Baughman"

Linda Colvin wrote on Jul 30, 2014:

"Rhett was one of a kind and he will be missed immensely by everyone who knew him. I'll always remember his smile. He could make the saddest day happy with that smile! Rest In Peace Rhett, knowing many people loved you. Linda Colvin"

cynthia wrote on Jul 30, 2014:

"Goodnight sweet brother, see you in the morning."

Gail, Kim, Kelly, Bob and Lindsay, and a wrote on Jul 30, 2014:

"Gail, Kim, Kelly, Bob and Lindsay, and all the kids purchased the America the Beautiful for the family of Rhett Jarard Schwandner."

David Grubb wrote on Jul 29, 2014:

"(No guestbook text available)"

David Grubb wrote on Jul 29, 2014:

"1 file added to the tribute wall"

Bethany wrote on Jul 29, 2014:

"(No guestbook text available)"

Darryl & Margaret Gladding wrote on Jul 29, 2014:

"2 files added to the album New Album Name"

Greg Clauss wrote on Jul 29, 2014:

"Rhett was a childhood friend, a friend for 60 plus years. Rhett, with brothers Judd and Rodney were often at Uncle Marshalls home, next door to our home on Maxwell Avenue. We were all together during many summers there. I remember swimming/wading in prairie creek with our dads, and generally having fun as kids. As adults, with me living in Colorado, we haven't seen much of each other. But I remember the innocence of our childhood together. Deepest sympathy to all Rhett leaves behind. Rhett, rest in peace, my friend. Greg Clauss"