Otto J. Schwab

Otto J. Schwab, a devoted husband, cherished father, beloved grandfather, and a steadfast friend, passed away November 28, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the age of 87, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Indianapolis on December 30, 1936, Otto took great pride in being a lifelong member of his community. 

For 28 years, Otto was employed by Eli Lilly and Company. He was a hard worker and was committed to his job until he retired in 1993. His life was marked by an unwavering loyalty to his family.

Otto's true joy lay in his time spent with his wife of 65 years, Jo Ann (Cherry) Schwab, his children, and their families. Memories within the family reflect his love of traveling throughout the United States and around the world. But most notably, his favorite place to visit was Texas to visit his grandchildren. The laughter and love they shared during these visits, fostered lasting bonds that enriched the lives of those fortunate enough to sit beside him.

Otto was a faithful member of Good Shepard Catholic Church, where he served in several areas. He volunteered for the St. Vincent dePaul Society for many years. He graduated from Washington High School in Indianapolis in 1954. He served honorably in the Army Reserve, proving his dedication to his country. An enthusiastic sports fan, he avidly supported the Indianapolis Colts, Indiana Pacers, and the teams of Indiana University and the University Notre Dame.

He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann Schwab, daughters Kellie (Dan) Hawkins, Kristie (Tim) Conner, and Kimberly (Tim) Dunn, as well as his son Kevin (Shauna) Schwab. He leaves behind a beloved sister, Evelyn Halliburton, and a host of adoring grandchildren—Korie (Steve) Giangola, Kolin (Anna) Goff, Travis (Hailey) Conner, Troy Conner, Shelby (Zach) Thomas, Sara (Chris) Cammack, Alex (Shelby) Dunn, Amiyah Dunn, Sam (Taylor) Schwab, and Ben Schwab. He was also blessed with the lives of his nine great-grandchildren: Emma, Callie, Aubrey, Parker, Caden, Max, Teagan, Cooper, and Elena. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Otto was preceded in death by his parents, James B. and Agnes M. (Smith) Schwab, as well as his siblings Anna Roberts, Lucille Marx, Mary Jo Papesh, Agnes Genier, Freda Moore, Joseph Schwab and his granddaughter Nicole Christine Schwab. 

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory in Indianapolis, 6107 S. East Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46227. A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate his life will take place Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church,2905 Carson Ave., Indianapolis, Indiana 46203. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to The St. Vincent dePaul Society, https://www.svdpindy.org/

Please visit www.ORileyBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.

His gentle spirit, warmth, and sense of humor will be profoundly missed but will remain alive in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.