Harlan F Schwab

Harlan Frederick Schwab, aged 86, passed away Monday, December 9, 2024.

Harlan Frederick Schwab was born January 23, 1938, in Blue Earth, MN. He was the 5th of 8 children blessed to Fred and Gladys Schwab. He attended school in Blue Earth, MN and completed the U.S. Army basic training with an honorable discharge in 1963.

Harley considered the true treasures of his life to be his memories, living off the land, hand-crafted items, his furry buddy Sabre, and a simple life. His affinity for the outdoors began in 1959 on a fishing trip in northern Minnesota, which later became his lifelong home. He made his way to Grand Marais, where he resided for over 50 years, and fulfilled his passion of hunting and trapping for 35 years. When he was not in the great outdoors, he worked in construction, carpentry and as a handyman. He enjoyed many hours of cutting and splitting firewood, fixing equipment, the Minnesota Vikings, and reminiscing about the good old days. Harley loved God's country, the Gunflint trail, his cabin on the lake, and the lifelong friends he made along the way. 

Harley was a hard-worker, jovial by nature and built his life exactly the way he wanted it. In a brief memoir of his time and experiences, he captured his appreciation of life humbly:

“As I have all the memories over the years, I cannot ask for more. Thank you, Lord. As my days come to an end down the line, I hope I leave something of myself here for years to come. I will give up some of my secrets, but I will keep a lot, as I may need them in the hereafter. I will not ask for more. P.S. I did it my way!”

Harley is survived by sister Marian Grotzinger, many nieces and nephews, and former wife Judy Olson. He was preceded in death by his parents Gladys and Fred Schwab, brothers Roger and Allen Schwab, sisters Betty Engelby, Lois Yeager, Phyllis Kragness, and Sheryl Schwab.

The family will hold a private remembrance ceremony at a time to be determined in the spring or summer of 2025.

Cavallin Funeral Home in Two Harbors is assisting the family with arrangements and cremation service.

Those who would like to honor Harley may donate to North Shore Health, Grand Marais, Minnesota to continue health services for future generations.