Michael "Whistle" Schwartz

Michael “Whistle” Schwartz, 66 of Winamac passed away at 3:31 a.m., Monday, April 14, 2025 at I.U. Health Arnett Hospital in Lafayette.

Born on April 2, 1959 in Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of the late Bernard and Phyllis (Bartgen) Schwartz.

Whistle was a farm hand, handy man and a jack of all trades. Whistle never liked to be in the spotlight. He was a man of few words, but his one-liners will never be forgotten.

His nieces and nephews were never called by their real names, he had goofy nicknames for all of them.

He was a member of the Winamac Eagles #2580 and enjoyed helping others, farming and spending time on the river. He never missed a bonfire, and he knew he never needed an invitation to join one. At family get togethers he was there one minute, and the next minute he had ventured off to somewhere else. He had a free spirit and lived life on his own terms. Whistle will be sadly missed by his family and friends, and all who knew him.

Survivors include:

Dustin Salzer, son

Madison Salzer, granddaughter

Brody Salzer, grandson

John (Anita) Lasanowski, brother

Felicia Emigh, sister

Brenda Grimmett, sister

William Michael (Faye) Voight, brother

Pat (John) Wawrzyniec, sister

Bernard (Traci) Schwartz Jr, brother

Cathy (John) Fritz, sister

Daniel “Dino” Schwartz, brother

Terry (fiancé Amy) Schwartz, brother

Theresa Schwartz, sister

Randy Schwartz, brother

Rodney (Joleen) Schwartz, brother

Janet Schwartz, sister

He is also survived by many nieces and nephews

He was preceded in death by:

Bernard & Phyllis Schwartz, parents

Wayne Schwartz, infant brother

Bernard Voight, brother

Jean Schwartz, sister

Larry Schwartz, brother

Don Grimmett, brother-in-law

A Celebration of Life Service will be on Sunday, April 27, 2025 from 2-6 pm EST at the Winamac Eagles #2580.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Winamac Eagles #2580 to be used for the Angel Tree, for the love that Whistle had for children.

Whistle’s online guestbook is available, and condolences can be shared with the family