Leon R. Schwalbe

Leon was born in Manitowoc, WI to Ruben and Amanda Schwalbe on March 25, 1937.

In October of 1956 Leon enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. stationed at Camp Pendleton in California where he earned the Good Conduct Medal. Leon was assigned as a cook which is where he discovered and developed his lifelong talent for cooking into a career as an executive chef.

In May 1958 Leon married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Patsy Mae Midtlyng of Two Rivers, WI.

They were blessed with four children, Steven, James, Stuart and Jennifer.

Leon’s career as an executive chef took him to various colleges, companies and corporations around the Midwest. This included stops in Iowa, Illinois, Michigan and eventually Milwaukee.

While living in Wisconsin, Patsy was injured in an automobile accident and her spinal cord was severed. Following this injury Leon and Patsy became deeply involved in the National Spinal Cord Injury Association of Southeastern Wisconsin. Together, they were the motivating force in the development of The Steven J. Schwalbe Respite Center (named after their son who passed away tragically at an early age) built on the Summerfest Grounds in Milwaukee. The center was dedicated in June 1996, and serves as an oasis for persons with disabilities and other special needs while attending activities on the Summerfest Grounds. The respite center is the only facility of its kind in the United States.

After Leon’s retirement he and Patsy sold their home in New Berlin and moved to Sun City where they lived “happily ever after” until their passing.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Patsy, his eldest son Steven and his daughter Jennifer, as well as his brothers Ken and Gene, and sister Delores Luisier. Leon is survived by his sons James L. Schwalbe and Stuart R. Schwalbe; five grandchildren, three great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Also, their special family friend Diane Klug.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 22nd at 11:00 AM in the Chapel of the Flowers at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13235 W. Capitol Drive, Brookfield WI.