Harriette Cohen Schwartz, a Denver native, passed away April 6, 2013, surrounded by her family. A private family burial was followed by a memorial service at Congregation Bnai Israel in Sacramento, Calif., on April 10.
She will be best remembered for Harriettes Rules, an unwritten guide to a gracious life, the family said. Her children and the many friends who loved her knew that if they followed Harriettes Rules, they were doing the right thing.
Harriette was born in Denver to Ida and William (Bill) Cohen. Her grandmother Bella Mintz was the founder of the Jewish Home for the Aged (later Beth Israel Hospital and Home Society and now Shalom Cares).
Following her graduation from East High, Harriette attended UC-Berkeley, where she met Big Joe Schwartz.
After their marriage, they settled down in his hometown of Sacramento and Harriette became an active member of the community.
She was a lifelong volunteer at Bnai Israel, where she belonged to the choir.
Her community activities included the Mercy Guild, Home of Peace board, Jewish Federation Womens Division and leadership roles with several PTAs.
Harriette, along with her partners, founded and managed Vima S.p.A., an art needlework boutique.
She traveled widely and had a strong interest in theater, music and the arts.
A devoted wife, she was very involved with her childrens and grandchildrens lives, volunteering at school events and attending their school and athletic programs.
Harriette is survived by her husband of 62 years Joe Schwartz; children Marcee (Mark) Samberg, Susan (Allen) Blum, Denni Mador, David (Patti) Schwartz and William Schwartz; grandchildren Josh (Petra), Nina, Jimmy, Matt, Ilana, Jessica, Micah, Bailey and Kiley; and great-granddaughter Dora.
Contributions may be made to Shalom Cares in Denver or Congregation Bnai Israel, 3600 Riverside Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95818.
Copyright © 2013 by the Intermountain Jewish News
