Thomas Joseph Schwab, a respected public servant whose leadership helped shape the City of Grand Terrace for more than two decades, passed away on December 13, 2025, at the age of 68.
Tom was born on August 17, 1957, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, to James and Catherine Schwab. His parents met in Japan while James was serving in the military, a connection that made Tom proudly 50 percent Japanese. The third of four brothers, Tom grew up alongside his siblings Mike, Dan, and Jim Schwab. Raised in an Air Force family, he experienced a childhood shaped by service, adaptability, and travel, living throughout the United States as well as in Japan and England, experiences that helped form his global perspective and strong sense of civic duty.
Tom graduated from California State University, San Bernardino and just two days later began his professional career with the City of San Bernardino in 1979, working in the Finance Department as an accountant. In 1982, he went on to become the Finance Director for the City of Potterville. In 1984, he was appointed Finance Director for the City of Grand Terrace, and in 1987 became City Manager, a role he would hold with distinction until his retirement in 2009.
During his 22 year tenure as City Manager, Tom played a significant role in guiding Grand Terrace through periods of growth and change, earning the trust of elected officials, city staff, and residents alike. He was known for his steady leadership, fiscal responsibility, and open-door approach. Tom deeply loved living in and serving the City of Grand Terrace, which he viewed not just as his workplace, but as his home. He felt it was important to live in the City you manage because he took a vested interest in its success. He also had no problem stopping to address citizen concerns while out grocery shopping or at City events. City employees were like family to him, and he treated them as such. He celebrated many of their life moments and watched them grow and evolve in their various roles with the City. His longevity in the role stands as a testament to his integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public service.
Beyond his career, Tom embraced life with enthusiasm. He was passionate about travel and was fortunate to explore much of the world. He also enjoyed golfing, aviation, classic cars, fishing, and motorcycles. Above all, Tom’s greatest joy was his family. He proudly raised his daughters, Ariel and Catherine, and spent many meaningful years alongside Linda, building a strong and loving family together. He took immense pride in being a devoted father and found his greatest happiness in his role as “Ojisan”, Japanese for grandfather, to his beloved grandchildren, Laurent and Lorelei.
As a “military brat”, Tom lived throughout the world but he has always said that Grand Terrace will always be his one true home. Tom will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, humor, and deep dedication to both his family and his community. His legacy of service and leadership will continue to be felt throughout the City of Grand Terrace and beyond.
A memorial ceremony honoring Thomas Joseph Schwab will be held on January 22 at 9:00 a.m. at Montecito Memorial Park in Colton.