Robert Charles Schweickart

Robert Charles Schweickart passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026 after a courageous battle with Parkinsons. Robert was born on February 13,1935 to Dorothy and Erwin Schweickart in Newark, New Jersey. He was the older brother to Richard Schweickart (preceded in death in 2013).

Robert proudly enlisted in the United States Navy at 18 years old, and served his country for three years during the Korean War. He served as a BT Petty Officer on the USS Oberon and the USS General A.E. Anderson. He was honored for his distinguished service with the "China Service Medal," and the "United Nations Medal." His experience during the Korean War had a lasting effect on him, and he later volunteered his time recruiting Coast Guard Cadets, and offered aid to aging former service members in the US Navy.

Following Robert's discharge from the Navy, he attended Villanova University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree (1960). He was eternally grateful to Villanova for the exceptional education and giving him the confidence to pursue a full purposeful life. Over the years he showed his gratitude and devotion to Villanova through gifts and his time.

Robert went on to marry the love of his life Karen Guhra in February 1965. They resided in Chester, New Jersey where he started as an account executive, specializing in chemical sales for the Texaco Company. He was then hired by Union Carbide Corporation in New York City. He spent over 25 years at Union Carbide in various roles building an impressive career. Robert and Karen, and their two daughters later moved to Ridgefield, CT where Robert worked as the Director of Sales and Customer Service in North America, Canada and Mexico at their headquarters in Danbury, CT. He built long lasting relationships with customers and optimized chemical supply chains for Fortune 500 Manufacturers.

Robert and Karen later moved to their long time "happy place" Hilton Head Island where they resided in Long Cove for over 30 years. After retirement, Robert maintained an active schedule volunteering for the Coast Guard, Knights of Columbus, and US Navy. He also loved traveling the world with his wife Karen, family, and friends. Robert had a huge heart and a great sense of humor. He showed love and kindness towards friends, family and even strangers. He used his sense of humor to bring laughter and joy to everyone he encountered.

Robert's number one priority in life was his family. He will always be remembered as the proud patriarch leaving a legacy of integrity and hard work. Robert is survived by his wife Karen, daughter Christine (Patrick), daughter Janine (Michael) and six grandchildren (Peyton, Madeleine, Elisabeth, Charlotte, Meredith, and Catherine).

A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026 at Holy Family Catholic Church on Hilton Head Island at 11 am. A burial service will be held at the Beaufort National Cemetery on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at Noon.