Christian James Schwab
August 7, 1968 - September 23, 2023
Christian James Schwab, our beloved father, brother and friend, passed away unexpectedly on September 23, 2023.
Christian was born on August 7, 1968 in Sunnyvale, CA to Frederick Schwab and Frances Whitely; the youngest of three brothers. Christian graduated from Olympus High School in 1987 where he played hockey and football. Christian earned his Bachelor's Degree in Economics from the University of Utah where he was active in the Kappa Sigma fraternity and the Associated Students of University of Utah. In 1999, he married Katie Jones and together they had two children.
Christian loved his big brothers, especially the fierce competitions they had swimming, playing ping pong, tennis and skiing. Later he depended on them and always felt grateful for their presence. In his work, Christian was focused, dependable and smart. He helped thousands of people achieve their dreams of home ownership. Early in his career he started a radio show navigating people through the ins and outs of the mortgage process. Christian was a gifted athlete who thrived off of competition. He competed on an international hockey travel team and was an equally talented soccer player, gymnast and triathlete. Just one year ago, he completed his second Spartan race. He had a passion for weight-lifting, clean eating and clean living; he was an example of dedication and discipline. In time, he took to the sidelines, loving every minute as a soccer dad. Christian’s way with kids and animals was special; he had fun with his kids’ friends and was most alive when the house was full of their laughter. He loved his dogs and all animals; he seemed to speak their language. Being the dad of a daughter brought him immense joy; the moment his daughter was born she had the ability to bring him a sense of peace, even recently when peace felt elusive.
Christian is survived by his children Alexa and Zachary Schwab; brothers Michael and Daniel (Christine) Schwab; adored niece Kya Schwab; and mother of his children, Katie Schwab.
Friends are invited to celebrate his life on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at Starks funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the parking entrance on the north side of the building.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to either the I Love You Bro Foundation, The Men’s Resource Center or a foundation of your choice supporting men’s mental health.
In Loving Memory
Our deepest sympathy to everyone who knew and loved Christian. He helped us buy our first home and we followed him over the years where helped us refinance and later a home equity loan. We consider him a friend and will miss him. My husband and I are huge supporters of mental health awareness and our hearts ache. Love, The Smith Family.
Kim and Dave Smith
Salt Lake City, UT
Our hearts are heavy for those closest to Christian. We send love and strength as you navigate this difficult time. We have many fond memories of time spent with Christian - traveling, triathlons, and cheering on sports as parent on the sidelines. I hope loved ones can also find comfort in remembering the good times. He was a good man and will be dearly missed. Love always, the Paradise Family
Allison Paradise
Salt Lake Cty, UT
Chris, I will always remember and cherish our friendship during our high school years at Olympus and at the University of Utah where we were fraternity brothers at the Kappa Sigma, Delta-Sigma Chapter - AEKDB. My condolences to the Schwab family Alexa, Zachary, Michael, and Daniel. Rest in peace my dear friend.
Shane Berg
Park City, UT
Dad - I sit here months later still feeling the same pain as the day I learned I no longer had you. You were the light in the dark and the comfort in uncomfortable places for me. You were incapable of hate and those around you appreciated your presence. You were truly the most interesting person I've ever met. That's what made you so great. That's what made your love so special - not even in a father way. That's why I know I will never find anyone who makes me feel the way you did again. You have taught me so much and I strive to use what I've learned from you in these testing moments. You were too good for this world. I miss you so much. I hate that I have to do this all without you. I love you more than anything. I hope I can see you again. You put me in so much pain but I love you so much no matter. I will never allow anyone to forget the name and man we call Christian Schwab. I hope you've found your peace.
Zachary Schwab
Salt Lake City, UT