Obituary of Claire Marie Schwartz

Claire Schwartz (nee Lange) was born August 4, 1932 in Baltimore, MD, daughter of John and Rose Lange (nee Coombs). She is pre-deceased by Walter, her husband of 50 years, and her brothers Jack and Ronald. Claire is survived by her son Joseph and his wife Patricia, her daughter Carol, and grandchildren Shawn, Jason (Carol), Gregory and Lindsey (Joseph). Claire is also survived by many nieces and nephews including Brian, Mark, John, and Patrick. Claire had many friends but was particularly close to her best friend and sister-in-law Patricia Lange, with whom she shared many adventures. 

Claire attended St. Katherine of Sienna parochial school and was a 1950 graduate of The Catholic High School of Baltimore. Claire was a fantastic cook, who rarely worked from a recipe, relying on what was in her head and her improvising as she felt. She was an especially good baker and it was rare to not see a homemade cake or pie in her kitchen. 

An avid sports fan, particularly of the Colts/Ravens and Orioles, Claire could always be found cheering on her teams. Before she was married she was a Baltimore Colts season ticket holder, and some of her most prized memorabilia is related to the Colt's early glory days. In recent years, despite difficult mobility, Claire was thrilled to attend some Ravens games, including the playoffs. She made it a point to attend her childrens' and grandchildrens' sporting events, recitals, music concerts and other events whenever possible. 

Claire was also a music fan, with Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen and The Who being favorites. Despite being a bit beyond the usual demographic, Claire attended several Springsteen and Who shows. 

Claire loved the outdoors. A patio, cold Natty Boh and something good on the grill would make her afternoon. Feisty to the end, she never let decades of difficult physical issues from rheumatoid arthritis fully hold her back from things she wanted to do. It was only in recent years when some things became too challenging that she acknowledged these limitations, but still found substitute ways to get around and to keep enjoying life. Claire never turned down a party. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Arthritis Foundation  https://www.arthritis.org/