One of the last surviving Pearl Harbor veterans, Navy veteran Ira “Ike” Schab, has passed away at the age of 105. A witness to the infamous December 7, 1941, attack, Schab served aboard the USS Dobbin and dedicated his later life to preserving the memory of those who perished. His death marks a significant loss for American history and memory, further underscoring the urgent need to preserve the firsthand accounts of the dwindling number of World War II survivors.
Story Highlights
- Navy veteran Ira “Ike” Schab, aged 105, passed away, leaving behind a dwindling number of Pearl Harbor survivors.
- Schab was a witness to the infamous December 7, 1941, attack, which propelled the U.S. into World War II.
- His later life was dedicated to honoring those who perished during the attack, attending commemorations until his health declined.
- As one of approximately 12 remaining survivors, his death underscores the urgency of preserving firsthand WWII accounts.
The Life and Legacy of Ira “Ike” Schab
Ira “Ike” Schab, born on July 4, 1920, in Chicago, joined the U.S. Navy at 18 amid the Great Depression. His service saw him aboard the USS Dobbin during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. At the time, Schab was a tuba player in the ship’s band, and he witnessed the USS Utah capsizing and assisted with anti-aircraft ammunition. This pivotal moment in history marked the end of U.S. isolationism and drew the nation into World War II.
Schab’s post-war career was as remarkable as his service. After WWII, he pursued aerospace engineering and contributed to the Apollo program as an electrical engineer for General Dynamics. Despite initially being reticent about his wartime experiences, Schab eventually became an active participant in Pearl Harbor commemorations, driven by a desire to honor fallen comrades. His son, a retired Navy commander, and daughter Kimberlee Heinrichs, who confirmed his death, supported his efforts to keep the memory of Pearl Harbor alive.
A second world war veteran who was among the last survivors of the 1941 Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor died on Saturday.
Ira “Ike” Schab, who served in the US navy at the time of the bombing, was 105, according to a statement from the USS Arizona Memorial, which pays tribute to… pic.twitter.com/t5WkYr7lFM— Mike Netter (@nettermike) December 21, 2025
Impact of Schab’s Passing
With Schab’s passing, the group of living Pearl Harbor survivors shrinks further, now numbering around 12. This loss highlights the urgency of preserving their stories through oral histories and digital media. Efforts by organizations like the Pacific Historic Parks, which conducted an oral history interview with Schab in early 2025, are crucial in documenting these invaluable personal accounts for future generations.
The social and historical implications of Schab’s death extend beyond his personal story. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation and the importance of historical preservation. As firsthand accounts become increasingly scarce, the role of historians and preservationists in maintaining these narratives becomes ever more critical.
Honoring the Legacy of Pearl Harbor Survivors
Schab’s commitment to attending Pearl Harbor commemorations until his health no longer permitted it exemplifies the dedication of survivors to preserving history. His final years were marked by participation in memorial events, even as his health waned. This dedication reflects the broader commitment of WWII veterans to honor their comrades and ensure that future generations understand the gravity of their sacrifices.
In the wake of Schab’s death, the responsibility falls on historians, educators, and younger generations to continue sharing these stories. The preservation of history is not just about recounting past events but about shaping the values and understanding of the future. As the number of living witnesses dwindles, efforts to honor their legacy and educate about their experiences must intensify.
Sources:
- WWII Navy veteran Ira ‘Ike’ Schab, one of last remaining Pearl Harbor survivors, dies at 105
- One of the last remaining Pearl Harbor survivors, Ira “Ike” Schab, dies at 105 – Los Angeles Times
