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Vernon Ray Schwartz

1924 - 2015

BORN

1924

DIED

2015

Vernon Schwartz Obituary

Schwartz, Vernon Ray Was 90 years old when he passed on December 28, 2014. He was born on November 10, 1924 in Freeman, S.D., lived and worked in Chicago and Suburban areas the rest of his life. Graduated from DePaul University with a B.A. and an M.A. in Fine Arts. Theatre director of over 100 plays and many distinguished actors and stars. He was also a stage actor and a retired teacher from S. Suburban College, member of Actor's Equity, American Federation of TV and Radio Artists, Screen Actors Guild, and the Theosophical Society in America. Vernon leaves behind a daughter, Karen Schwartz-Moran; two sons, Kim L. Schwartz, Keith L. Black; and two grandchildren, Laurie C. Moran and Jeremiah P. Moran II. A memorial service will be held at a future date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jan. 3, 2015.

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BEVERLY BERNSTEIN

December 28, 2024

YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU BEVERLY ZON BERNSTEIN WITH ALL MY LOVE, BEVERLY

December 26, 2017

From: Laurel Pye. I came across vernon's name and signature in my deceased mother's (Ardis Thompson Pye, Pa) art book from univ of Chicago 1941-1942. I recognized his name from her phone list as a dear art friend she wrote to and talked to in her final yrs. also knew he had painting of hers he cherished. As an artist myself I'm sure I would have found Vernon to be an exceptional person and artist had we met. Hope his art and legacy inspire you as much as my mother's art and life continue to inspire me. Sincerely, [email protected]. Denver

Rick Plastina

May 28, 2017

Thanks for giving me my start in professional theatre, Vernon Schwartz. Vernon cast me in "Send Me No Flowers" with Bob Crane and "The Desk Set" with Shirley Booth. Terrific, informative & kind director who made it possible for me to succeed as a working actor for around 50 years. RIP, talented man!

Emily Morement

April 1, 2016

I never personally met vernon Schwartz but Im sad to hear of his passing. I have only recently come to hear of the news consequently by sorting out my emails.

I reached out to Vernon in 2007 when i was 16, at school in England, searching google for any set designers that could help in my school project. From that moment on, Vernon helped me shape my future and motivate me to pursue a career in theatre. He would send me materials, books, and letters about personal designs and projects that had happened at Drury lane theatre and at his current position at Kindig Performing Arts Center.

The generosity on a man- then at 83, to reach out to someone from across the over side of the world and motivate and inspire is incredible. Shows the true character and quality of a man.

I write this in hope that this reaches out to any of his family members, to let them know that Vernon has touched my heart and truly shaped my future. Because of Vernon, I went to university to study theatre design, and although i never pursed theatre I remained creative and work in design departments in tv.

Thank you Vernon, i hope one day i will be able to inspire someone, the way you inspired me x

Shirley Pena

November 8, 2015

"Vernon was a beautiful actor who moved like a snake. I learned by just watching him perform.-Ed Asner

October 3, 2015

maybe will meet in the next life. dear sweet Vernon. Beverly zon Bernstein

David Hayes

July 21, 2015

The Man,The Myth,The Legend...But Mostly a wonderfully good friend and mentor! Whether audience or actor, through your direction, they BELLIEVED! Til we meet again.....

June 5, 2015

Dear Karen, Keith and Kim:
Vernon was my first director when I was 10 years old. He taught me how to be an actress and an artist. I'm still working in theatre thanks to him.
Sincerely,
Iris Lieberman

Karen Finney

March 25, 2015

Diane Kaffka

March 18, 2015

Vernon Schwartz was a great man and gave me an understanding of theatre and Shakespeare like no other. His body of work in theatre is/was the most extensive of anyone I know. He had great intelligence and humor. (His version of 'Bad Shakespeare' was epic.) He will be truly missed.

Vernon R. Schwartz

Ellie Shunko

March 17, 2015

He was a man, take him for all in all.
I shall not look upon his like again.

-- Hamlet: Act I, scene 2

Megan Zurawicz

March 17, 2015

He will ever be a part of my life; I think of him and his stories often.Megan

February 2, 2015

Vernon RIP-40 years of performing and teaching together, most of all 40 years of
devoted friendship and support. Love in this
Life and the Next. Adeline

Sandy Kaczmarski

January 27, 2015

Funny, been thinking of him recently and sorry to hear he has gone on his voyage. He was a brilliant director who introduced me to so many things like classical music, further appreciation of art, how to build sets, costumes, makeup. Theosophical Society. He was a quick wit who was always a calming force in dealing with often difficult actors and stars.
Too bad we started on a Drury book too late, after age started catching up with you.
Have a good trip, Vern.

Vern as Mercutio in "Romeo and Juliet"

Sandy Kaczmarski

January 26, 2015

Ed Asner, Pat O'Brien, and Vern - "We're No Angels"

Sandy Kaczmarski

January 26, 2015

With Elaine May, 1952

Sandy Kaczmarski

January 26, 2015

The Williamson Family

January 8, 2015

Deepest condolences to the Schwartz family. May the God of comfort continue to comfort you during this time of sorrow.

Terry LeBeau

January 4, 2015

Vern was a great friend. I experienced his directing genius as a member of his children's theater troup at Drury Lane for over ten years in the late 60s.

So many of the "stars" in Drury Lane's Star Theatre shows loved to work with Vern as Director. I remember from those days, assisting with the "In-the-Round" night theatre presentations how Elke Somer, Forrest Tucker, Douglas Fairbanks Jr. etc. loved working with Vern.

He was a genius who held special work groups to develop aspiring actors with classic plays.

He was, more than anything else, just a nice, fun friend. I miss you Vern. I wish you Peace and Joy.

Terry Le Beau

Dorothy Ward-Crotty

January 3, 2015

He is now a star in the heavens. Loving memories, exit stage right.

January 3, 2015

I am sorry for your loss. I was a long time student at Wright College and a friend. Vern introduced me to Shakespeare and we attended many productions at Shakespeare Theater and Drury Lane. Please let me know when the memorial service will be held.
[email protected]

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