Namzar “Mimi” Schwabe (née Esayian), age 92, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family. Strong, independent, and full of grace, Mimi remained living on her own until just days before her passing, a testament to the resilience and determination that defined her life.

Born in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Armenian immigrant parents, Nouriza and Nushan Esayian, Mimi carried great pride in her Armenian heritage throughout her life. She made her homes in South Milwaukee, Franklin, and Greendale, Wisconsin, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Mimi shared 62 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, the late George “The Gun” Schwabe. Together they built a beautiful life centered on family, friendship, and adventure. They traveled extensively throughout the world, creating unforgettable memories. One of Mimi’s most meaningful journeys was to Armenia and Turkey. Where she visited the village of Ceyhun. Her father had grown up in the village. She was able to reconnect with her family’s roots, honoring the legacy of those who came before her.

She was the devoted mother of Georgeann Drehfal and Jay Schwabe. Adoring mother-in-law to John Drehfal.

Mimi was a proud and loving grandmother to Sara (Mark) Vila, Andrew (Aleah) Drehfal, Kierra Drehfal, Sierra Drehfal, and Mary Schwabe. She was also the cherished great-grandmother of Noriza Drehfal, Olivia Dineen, and Bailey Selensky, who brought immeasurable joy to her later years. She treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, and they will forever carry her love in their hearts.

She is further survived by her brother, Harry (Shari) Esayian; her niece, Chris Henzig; nephews Keith Olson and Nicholas Esayian; many extended family members; and countless dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband George, and her brother, John (Sue) Esayian.

A 1951 graduate of South Milwaukee High School, Mimi enjoyed a distinguished career as an executive secretary with Ladish, where she worked for more than 40 years before retiring in 1993. She took great pride in her work and was an active member of Executive Women, forming lifelong friendships throughout her career.

Service to others was an important part of Mimi’s life. She volunteered with the Franklin Police Department before her love of travel took her in new directions. During the winters she and George spent time in Wickenburg, Arizona. Mimi enjoyed working with the Chamber of Commerce. Later, while living at Harbor Village in Greendale, she remained actively involved by serving on resident boards.

Mimi had a gift for making a house feel like home. She loved cooking and baking for family and friends, and many of her recipes will continue to be shared for generations. She was an accomplished quilter and needleworker, earning a Blue Ribbon at the Wisconsin State Fair in 1977 for a quilt lovingly made for her granddaughter. Even after losing much of her vision, she remained creative and generous, knitting baby hats that were donated to newborns at local hospitals.

She loved reading, traveling, and spending summers at Star Lake with George, their children and grandchildren. Whether sharing breakfast, telling stories, teaching family recipes, or simply enjoying the laughter of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Mimi found her greatest happiness in the people she loved.

To know Mimi was to know quiet strength, unwavering love, kindness, generosity, and resilience. She leaves behind a family forever grateful for her example, her wisdom, and the countless memories she created.

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing she is reunited with George, the love of her life. Her legacy lives on in every meal shared around the table, every family gathering.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Holy Resurrection Armenian Church, 909 Michigan Ave, South Milwaukee, WI 53172. Funeral Service at 11:00 AM. St. Haroutune Cemetery to follow after.