Donald Charles Schwerdt Jr.

Son of Gertrude Schwerdt (nee Bradley) and Donald Charles Schwerdt Sr. who predeceased him in 2003 and 2024 respectively.

Born in Summit, New Jersey, on March 30, 1957, Don was raised in Springfield, where he grew up near the local firehouse. From an early age, he was captivated by the fire service, often riding his tricycle down the street to watch the fire trucks and activity inside the station. What began as childhood fascination grew into a lifelong calling. At 18, Don joined the Springfield Fire Department as a volunteer. He was hired as a full-time firefighter in 1977, and through years of hard work, he rose through the ranks to become Fire Chief in 2004.

Don was a dedicated professional who had a remarkable ability to bring fun, laughter, and a little mischief into every day. Throughout his career as a firefighter, he proudly served as a mentor to countless firefighters, generously sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation. He was a longtime member of the Union County Arson Task Force and served as Treasurer of the Union County Deputy Fire Chiefs Association. His commitment to the fire service and his community was recognized through numerous awards and commendations, reflecting the respect and admiration he earned from his colleagues.

Following his retirement from the Springfield Fire Department, Don began a second career with Insurance Restoration Services, where he proudly served as Fleet Manager for 12 years. He found great satisfaction in his work, but it was the friendships he built that meant the most to him.

In his free time, Don found his greatest joy on the water. An avid fisherman, he loved sharing his passion with family and friends. His boat became a place where laughter was shared and lasting memories were made. Don found as much happiness in watching others enjoy the experience as he did in fishing himself. It was just one of the many ways Don brought people together.

Don was the kind of person who never met a stranger, making friends wherever he went. His quick wit and larger-than-life personality left a lasting impression on everyone he met. A gifted storyteller, Don had a way of bringing every tale to life. He made every room feel a little brighter and every situation feel like an adventure. Always willing to lend an ear and offer wisdom and advice, he believed that any problem could be solved in a few hours over a couple of Tanqueray and Tonic’s (sometimes Bombay, NEVER Hendrick’s). Many have said he was their role model.

Don’s impact on others cannot be measured simply by his accomplishments, but by the countless memories he created with the people fortunate enough to know him. Everyone will remember Don a little differently because everyone had their own story with him—an adventure, a laugh, a piece of advice, or a moment that became unforgettable. That was Don’s gift: he left each person with a story worth telling.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 31 years Cinthia (Cindy) L. Weaver, children Kara, Christopher (Hannah), and Jeffrey (Elizabeth), grandson Connor, loving stepmother Joyce Field Schwerdt, siblings Debra Austin (Andrew), Diane Selzam (late Andrew), Dennis Schwerdt, Donna DiStasi (Raymond), Doreen Panzica (Anthony), Dayle Sickinger (Anthony), and many beloved nieces, nephews, and chosen family.

Should you wish to make a donation in his memory, please visit the Camp Moore website: https://www.njelkscampmoore.org/donate

A Celebration of Life is being planned for a future date.