Yakov Schwarz

Yakov attended the Penza Polytechnic Institute (PPI), graduating in the class of 1976. It was at this prestigious university that he forged his deep technical skills and engineering focus, ultimately earning a Master of Science in Computer Science.

In the summer of 1992, Yakov immigrated to the United States with his family. Navigating the immense challenges of a new language, unfamiliar customs, and a completely different way of life, he forged a path of professional excellence through sheer will and hard work. He became a beacon of determination for other immigrants from the former USSR, proving what could be achieved through perseverance. Settling in Houston and later Sugar Land, he served as a Network Engineer at GE (1993–1998) and a Network Engineer V at Blackbox Communications from 1998 until his retirement in August 2022. He was a master of his craft, achieving and maintaining the elite CCIE certification for decades.

He was deeply proud of his heritage and his parents, both decorated soldiers during WWII. His father, Isaak Rakhleevich Schwarz, was a Major in Technical Service, and his mother, Sara Khaimovna Schwarz, was a Senior Lieutenant in Combat Medicine. Yakov took great care to bring his father’s extensive collection of military medals with him to Houston, preserving the family’s legacy of bravery.

Yakov was a man of immense magnetism and intelligence. He stayed active through his love of skiing, deep-sea fishing, and soccer—firmly believing Leo Messi was the greatest to ever play the game. Most of all, Yakov loved traveling the world with his wife, Yelena, with whom he shared 43 years of happy marriage. They were such frequent visitors to all-inclusive resorts in Mexico that he was often recognized and greeted by name upon arrival.

Beyond his hobbies, Yakov was known for a truly unmatched analytical mind, a sharp wit, and a great sense of humor. His ability to engage in critical thinking and healthy debate was legendary among those who knew him, earning him a deep and widespread respect. He was a master storyteller and a wonderful host; along with his wife, their home became the central hub for all family gatherings and events. He was a man whom other men aspired to emulate, and he possessed a natural charm that drew everyone toward him. He was a unique soul who commanded a room by virtue of his character; his reputation leaves a profound and lasting legacy.

Yakov is survived by his wife, Yelena Schwarz of Missouri City; his sons, Eugene Schwarz and Dmitriy Schwarz of Houston; and his granddaughter, Lilith (Lily). He is preceded in death by his parents, Isaak and Sara.

Service Information A memorial service will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Monday, April 27, 2026, at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home & Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077.

Flowers will be accepted on the day of service at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home & Cemetery. Please ensure deliveries arrive by 8 a.m 4/27/2026