John Charles Schwonik

John Charles Schwonik passed away on May 5th, 2025 at the age of 77 years, while in the compassionate care of the Long Term Care staff at the Wetaskiwin hospital. Born in Victoria, BC, his family moved to Wetaskiwin at a young age. After meeting his loving wife Jan, they built a house on an acreage closer to Gwynne, where he would spend the rest of his life.

Known as 'Mr. Schwonik' to hundreds of students in the area, John taught elementary and junior high school for 47 years. Teaching a plethora of subjects ranging from Math and Social to Computers and Gym, music was his main subject and passion. Introducing generations of students to their instruments and inspiring them to learn, perform, and enjoy music at Clear Vista School, Griffiths-Scott School, Rosebrier School, and Gwynne School was his life's work. This love of music spilled over into the rest of his life and played a big role for everyone in his family as well.

The fall was often marked with rehearsals and performances of his German-style polka band, The Wetaskiwin Bavarian Band, made up of local musicians (and eventually all four family members) performing numerous Oktoberfests in their authentic lederhosen and dirndls.

John also had a passion for service, and for giving back to his community. For many years he lent his time and expertise to the Alberta Teachers Association Local #18, the Malmo Mission Covenant Church, the Wetaskiwin Jazz Society, Special Olympics, and to the Elks Club #91 where he was a long-time member.

Sports were something John loved. An avid Oilers and Blue Jays fan, he also enjoyed curling with his family (noting that having two kids with two parents made for a perfect team), bowling, and for many years was an umpire for youth baseball.

John will be fondly remembered by many and is survived by his wife Jan; children Heidi and Karl (Andrea); grandchildren Abram and Simon; sisters Kathie (Murray), Wendy, Linda; brother Gordon; along with many cousins, nieces and nephews, and generations of former students and colleagues.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Malmo Mission Covenant Church (Hwy 822 and Twp Road 422, Wetaskiwin County) This was recorded and can be viewed below.

If desired, donations in memory of John may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories (#306, 10430 61 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 1M4)

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