Dave Schwartz, Beloved Meteorologist for The Weather Channel, Succumbs to Cancer

July 31,2016

The weather community is mourning the loss of Dave Schwartz, who spent more than 20 years as an on-air meteorologist for The Weather Channel. After battling cancer for 10 years, Schwartz, 63, passed away Saturday. 

A Philadelphia native and graduate of Temple and Mississippi State universities, Schwartz always knew he wanted to be a meteorologist. 

“I’ve always been a weather ‘geek’,” Schwartz said in his weather.com biography. “Skywatching, and watching The Weather Channel. I built a weather forecasting kit from Radio Shack my father bought me. The tornado scene from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ really turned me on.” 

Schwartz was known for his friendly on-air demeanor and often referred to viewers as "my friend" before giving forecasts. His laidback style and sense of humor quickly made him a fan favorite at The Weather Channel. 

on Saturday

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness to let you know that Dave Schwartz has passed away. Dave spent 22 years at The Weather Channel. He was a fan and staff favorite because he so obviously loved what he did and had a unique ability to draw viewers into the fascinating world of weather. His passion for weather was contagious and inspired many to enter the field of meteorology. His love of weather will never be forgotten, he will be greatly missed.

Ten years ago, he noticed a yellow tint to his skin and the whites of his eyes while applying his on-camera makeup. After consulting his doctor, he was diagnosed with Stage II pancreatic cancer. Schwartz was given one year to live after undergoing an unsuccessful procedure to remove a tumor. He refused to give up.

The meteorologist continued with radiation and chemotherapy treatments, and after a second surgical procedure, was pronounced cancer free. 

Less than a year later, a routine check-up showed that his cancer had returned. Yet again, Schwartz found a treatment option that worked for him.

He beat cancer twice.

In 2015, Schwartz was diagnosed with cancer a third time.

In February, on World Cancer Day, Schwartz talked about his diagnosis on air. “I want to let you know the reason why I have lost 35 pounds in the last 5 months is that I am being treated for cancer… Stomach cancer, of all things, for a foodie,” Schwartz said.

Despite this reality, Schwartz was determined to expand his message of inspiration and hope. 

Schwartz was remembered by his colleagues not only as the most creative personality to ever appear on The Weather Channel, but as an incredible man who made them better people and better broadcasters.

"Everything was genuine about this wonderful man. He was everybody's friend and that's what he really wanted to be. He made so many of us laugh, smile, and wish we were like him. He was so genuine and trustworthy - things that come from the soul and cannot be taught," said longtime friend and colleague Jim Cantore. "Dave loved doing the weather on TV and he was fantastic at it. I'm so thankful he was on our team doing what he loved till the end of his time."

The family is planning a private memorial service.