E. Kenton Schwarz, 90 of Gower, MO passed away December 11, 2025.
He was born near Parkville, MO to Walter E. and Jessie F. (Herndon) Schwarz on May 1, 1935. Kenton grew up on the family farm near Gashland in Clay County. After graduating from North Kansas City High School, he joined his father in their farming operation.
In 1955, he married Ann Mentzer, his high school sweetheart. They continued farming in Clay County until 1962 when he and his family including 3 children established Schwarzweis farm in Clinton County. He and his family continued the Swiss family tradition of Dairying for many years, several years earning the top producing herd in Missouri; then later moved to raising Holstein dairy replacements. Canadian fishing was at the top of his list of favorite things to do, a few years making 3 trips a summer, the most recent trip included 4 generations of Schwarz men.
Kenton had been active in many local farm organizations including serving on the Board of Directors of Farm Credit Association for over 20 years and he was a 60 year member of the Masonic Lodge, belonging to Gower Lodge #397. Kenton was also a member and had actively served in many capacities of the Gower Christian Church over the years, now attending services with 4 generations of family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son Jim Schwarz, grandson Kenton Shea, sister Nancy Schwarz Schrieber and half-sister Norma Lou Schwarz.
Kenton is survived by his wife Ann Schwarz; children Ray (Janet) Schwarz, Gower, MO and Kathy (John) Shea, St. Joseph, MO; grandchildren Lynn (Danny) Goodman, Laura (Paul) Evans, Phillip (Kathryn) Schwarz, Carrie (Robbie) Watson, Jessica Shea, Jessica Schwarz and Grant (Sara) Schwarz; 14 great-grandchildren; 3 nieces; other relatives and many friends.
Visitation will be from 5:00-6:30 pm with Masonic Services at 6:30 followed by Celebration of Life Service Sunday, December 14th all at the Gower Christian Church AFC in Gower, MOPrivate family burial will be held Monday at Allen Cemetery, Gower, MO.
Donations may be made to the East Buchanan FFA Alumni Scholarship Fund or the Gower Christian Church.
