Shirley Lee Schwarz

Shirley was full of life, leaving home and marrying her lifelong partner Bob Schwarz when she was 17 and he was 19 years old. They were married nearly 68 years. Within 3 years the young couple had 2 children, Bobby Jr. and Judy. Shirley was intent on creating a good life for her new family. She took on odd jobs, worked in a meat market, did cleanup work for newly constructed homes and took in ironing to increase the family income. When they got a little ahead she purchased a probate house in Old Torrance, fixed it up herself to be rented, eventually becoming one of the first house flippers before the term was even invented. Her passion and work ethic filled her days until they both retired in their fifties.

Shirley also loved horses and riding, beginning as a young girl and ending when she was bucked off her feisty horse “Ace” when she was 75. Shirley was a member of the Happy Hoofers riding club, rode in barrel riding events and one of her fondest memories was traveling back east with The Happy Hoofers and riding from Inn to Inn exploring New Hampshire and Boston. Shirley and Bob were active members of TNT Motorhome Club creating many long lasting friendships as they traveled throughout North America.

Shirley had a quick wit and a clear practical vision of life and its difficulties. She was not hesitant to offer some wisdom to her friends and family usually “right on advice.” Her family was always first and she was there with encouragement and support. She loved to host her large family gatherings during the holidays and throughout the year.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Robert G. Schwarz and her sister Irene Holt. Shirley is survived by her son Robert Lee (Denise) Schwarz; daughter Judy (Frank) Winn; grandchildren Jenny Schwarz, Jeanette Graham, Denise Graham Marinacci (Steve) and Adam Schwarz; great grandchildren Carter and Cameron Marinacci.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday March 26th at 10:30 am at Halverson, Stone & Myers Chapel, 1223 Cravens Ave., Torrance. Graveside service immediately following at Green Hills Memorial Park in San Pedro; luncheon to follow.