Christopher Schwieger

Christopher “SWiG” Michael Schwieger, age 52, of Grand Island, NE, passed away unexpectedly on October 7, 2024. Chris was born to Tom and Sandra Schwieger on December 1, 1971, in Taipei, Taiwan. He grew up with his sister, Carrie, experiencing life as an Air Force “brat” and attending various schools across the U.S., Italy, and England. After Tom retired from the Air Force, the family settled in Oklahoma City, where Chris graduated from Western Heights High School in 1991. It was here, unbeknownst to him, that he met his future wife, Cindy.

In 1992, Chris joined the Army as a combat engineer, becoming an E4 and Sapper, and volunteering for missions in various countries. He was honorably discharged in 1996 and took immense pride in his military service, as well as that of his father and grandfathers. Chris embodied the American spirit throughout his life. After his military service, he worked as a heavy equipment operator, excelling at operating any machinery he encountered.

Chris and Cindy reconnected in 2006 at Graham’s, where he recognized her and asked her to dance. They have been inseparable ever since, sharing a love for comic cons, traveling, camping in Nebraska, Colorado, and Wyoming, and supporting Husker football. In 2015, Chris retired, and they moved to Nebraska to be closer to his father and sister. Chris dedicated himself to caring for his family, cherishing every moment spent with them.

Chris was a devoted Nebraska Huskers football fan, holding season tickets and attending most home games, where he found a heartfelt football family. He had a passion for his ’57 Chevy, Tacoma, and Tundra, customizing each to be truly unique. Chris was an avid collector of action figures, especially the Incredible Hulk, and enjoyed creating his own custom figures. He was very artistic and creative, and loved to “Swigerize” everything. His service dog, Kaizer, was his constant companion, and his Westie, Riley, was always by his side. Chris cherished his nieces and nephews, treating them more like siblings and forming some of his closest bonds with them. He passionately believed in the "2-foot positive circle,” a concept where you harness your own positivity and inspire those around you to do the same.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cindy; his father, Tom; his sister, Carrie; and many friends and family members. He was preceded in death by his mother, Sandra, and both sets of grandparents.