PITTSFIELD, Mass. —  Ralph A. Schwarzer, 81, formerly of Cheshire passed away Thursday, September 29, 2022 at the Mount Greylock Extended Care Center in Pittsfield. Born in Adams on December 18, 1940, son of the late Ernest and Rachel DeCoigne Schwarzer he attended schools in Adams. A US Navy and Army Vietnam veteran he first was assigned to the USS WILLIAM R. RUSH, and then reassigned to the USS FOREST SHERMAN, and also the USS YOSEMITE.

In April of 1969 he received his honorable discharge from active duty and returned home where he continued his service with the National Guard and became Armorer for the Adams, North Adams, and Pittsfield Armory’s for many years. Ralph was a longtime member and Past Commander of Adams Post 160 of the American Legion, also was founder and Past Commander of Squadron 160 of the Sons of the American Legion in Adams. He was also a Troop Leader for 50 years for the Boy Scout Troop 3 and 38 of Adams. Ralph was a member of the North Adams VFW 996 and the Berkshire lodge of Masons in Adams.

His wife, the former Virginia Beverly, whom he married on July 4, 1979, died February 15, 2017.  He is survived by two sons, Ralph A. Schwarzer Jr. of Lanesboro, Ernest Schwarzer of North Adams, two daughters, Vicky Jo DeMar of Pittsfield, Marie Peckham of Pittsfield, a stepson, Nelson Ogert, and a stepdaughter, Kim Marie Houle. He was predeceased by a brother, Gordon Schwarzer, a sister, Eleanor Farnum, a stepson, Daniel Ogert, and a stepdaughter, Tammy Peckham.

A graveside service and burial with full military honors for Ralph will take place Friday, October 7, 2022 at 12 PM in Bellevue Cemetery in Adams.  Calling hours from the TROTTIER PRINGLE FUNERAL HOME, 6 Summer St., Adams will take place Thursday October 6, 2022 from 4 to 6 PM. In lieu of flowers donations in his memory can be made to Adams Post 160 of the American Legion, 160 Forest Park Ave., Adams, MA 01220.