Joseph L. Schwartz II

Joseph Louis Schwartz II, of Saline, Michigan, formally of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away on March 28, 2026, at the age of 84. He was born on December 9, 1941, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where he grew up.

He graduated from Langley High School in Pittsburgh in 1959. Joe then attended Capital University in Columbus, Ohio. While attending college he was a member of the track team. It was also at Capital he met fellow educator and future wife, Betty.

They worked together at Utica High School in Utica, Ohio. From there they moved to Ann Arbor in 1967, and Joe joined Saline Middle School as a history teacher and coach for boys and girls track and football. After receiving his Master of Administration from Eastern Michigan University, he became Assistant Principal for 2 years and then Principal for 19 years. A highlight of his career was serving as President for the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) in 1989. Joe was inducted into the Saline Area Schools Hall of Fame in 2023, honoring his legacy and impact throughout his career.

After retirement, Joe and Betty lived in Bellaire, Michigan, and enjoyed cross country skiing and golf…lots of golf… at Shanty Creek Resort in their dream home. Looking for warmer weather and year-round golf, they spent time in Ocala, Florida, before returning to Saline, Michigan. They enjoyed traveling to many places around the world including Egypt, an African safari and many cities throughout Europe. Joe also looked forward to trips to Drummond Island and Mackinac Island, MI, many walks over the Mackinaw Bridge and visits to the Upper Peninsula with family.

He is survived by his spouse of 62 years, Betty Lou (Armbruster) Schwartz of Saline, MI, Daughter Diane English (and Robert) of Weddington, NC, Daughter Donna Nixon (and Jim) of Topsham, VT, Son DJ Schwartz of Saline, MI, Grandsons Benjamin Schwartz of Canton, MI, Robert Tyler English of Weddington, NC, and Ryan Schwartz of Denver, CO, and his sister, Sylvia Katnik of Sewickley, PA.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph L Schwartz and Elizabeth Banner Schwartz.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at University of Michigan Health for the care and compassion given to Joe.

A private family service has already taken place.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Joe’s honor to the Foundation for Saline Area Schools, online at https://supportfsas.org/donate/