Scot Joseph Schwartz was born August 11, 1968, in Lawrence, KS. Being the youngest son of Don and Jane Schwartz, he grew up on the family farm west of Baldwin, with his brother Greg and sister Carrie. He went to Baldwin schools and graduated from Baldwin High School in 1986. He then attended Baker University, totally enjoying his college experience, graduating with his Bachelor’s degree in music education in 1991. He later earned a Masters of Education at Mid America Nazarene University and an endorsement for English Language Learners from Emporia State.
Scot learned the science of teaching but was a natural with the art of teaching. Beginning his career in Highland and then Douglas, he spent the majority of his time at Rising Star Elementary and then Shawnee Mission Northwest. He was known for the musicals he wrote for his sixth graders, his engaging teaching style, taking his high school choirs all over the U.S. and his multiple awards for being an outstanding educator. He was also an adored and beloved colleague.
Vacation Bible School was a summer highlight. He shared his talents leading the music and was the reason some kids may have been told to go on Monday but then chose to go back the rest of the week. It was a revival for all who participated.
Scot finished his professional life in real estate, finding great joy in helping families find just the right home. He also shared his talents by singing with the KC Symphony Chorus and volunteering with the Silverlink Ministry, providing music for worship services at nursing homes.
He is survived by his parents, brother Greg, (Kelly) sister Carrie Enick, and faithful life friend Stephanie Hill, nieces and nephews, Charley Jo Pittenger (Brett), Camdon Schwartz (Madison), Hayley Schwartz, Jacob Enick (Jamie), Major Rachael Borrero, (Ericko), and Callie McDaniel, (Kyle). As well as 11 great nieces and nephews, and his constant four-legged companion, Lacy. He is preceded in death by his brother-in-law Dale Enick.
Many others were on the receiving end of Scot’s compassionate and caring nature. He was a giant beacon of light and life, filled with unwavering faith. His laughter and wisdom were a gift to those around him. Cancer took his body, but his legacy lives on in the thousands of students that will think of him when they sing, the friends and neighbors who will continue to gather on the patio for food and fellowship, the COR Delivery Saints who will now be delivering backpacks without him, and the family dinners where he always exclaimed, “oh, this is delicious!”
Two services will be held: Monday December 29, 10:30 AM at Worden Cornerstone Church, 294 E. 900th Rd, Baldwin City, KS. Livestream available on the church Facebook page; https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064794128261
Tuesday December 30, 4:00 PM at Church of the Resurrection, Leawood – Wesley Chapel 13720, Roe Ave., Leawood, KS. Livestream available at cor.org/memorialsonline
The family suggests memorial contributions to A Cure in Sight (acureinsight.org), supporting research, patient services and raising awareness of Ocular Melanoma and Baker University, music education scholarship.
Scot was a lighthouse to so many of us—quietly steady, full of warmth, and always pointing others toward what truly matters. Through music, teaching, volunteering, and friendship, he reflected the light and love of Christ in ways that made hearts feel lighter and smiles shine brighter. In college, through the Zeta Chi Fraternity, he was a big brother to me; in life, he was a patient encourager who invested deeply and intentionally in friendships, lifting others up wherever he went with his joy and contagious laughter. Scot sang at my wedding, his incredible voice elevating the ceremony, and he went on to teach not only music but meaningful life lessons to countless students whose lives were impacted beyond measure because of him. I know his song continues now, as he sings with the angels in heaven.
Scot was a truly wonderful human. We were saddened to hear of his passing. His laughter and friendship will be missed by many! Our deepest condolences to the family.
So sorry, thinking of you all….Duane and Susie Lyon
Lincoln once said, “It’s not the amount of years in one’s life. It’s the amount of life in one’s years. At the young age of 57, dear Scot practiced that principle. His laughter and wisdom was a gift to those around him.
I had the pleasure of working with Scot in the backpack ministry, and his presence on Thursday mornings motivated the entire team. His courage and strong faith as he continued to battle this horrible disease were truly inspirational. Sending prayers for God’s comfort to envelop his family and friends, with the knowledge that we will all see him when our time on this earth is finished. He will be missed by all.