George Delano Swihart, 89, passed away on D-Day, June 6, 2024, in Marion, Indiana with his granddaughter Gerri by his side.
George was born at home on November 14, 1934, the first child and only son of Charles (Bill) and Evelyn Irene Kamp Swihart. He grew up with three sisters in the Akron and Gilead area. He graduated in 1953, having played basketball, softball, and ran track for the Wildcats.
He always loved planes and history-–especially WWII. He remembered his uncle, a member of the 73rd Squadron, sitting him in the cockpit of his plane on a visit. He joined the Indiana Army National Guard after graduation. After his 1956 discharge as a PFC, he remained in the standby reserve until 1961. He never stopped studying planes though, and was happy to share what he knew.
In 1954, George married Lois Keim. They had three children. After their divorce, he married Billie Johnson in November of 1978. She preceded him in death in April of 2019.
George always had more than one job. He worked at General Tire in Wabash, drove semi for Hoffman Trucking, and worked at Sealed Power from 1965 until he retired in 1995.
He used to tell stories of when he worked for Whit Gast in Akron. He remembered digging the potatoes and onions, and stacking wood crates 22 high in Whit’s barn. He could tell you the difference between red and black muck and which was better for what use. He said it was hard work, but everyone had fun.
He helped many farmers through the years, working with friends and family alike. He recalled baling hay and getting 10 cents a bale.
His love for growing things followed him into retirement. He always had flowers and a beautiful garden. During harvest, he would load the fruits of his labor in his wagon and deliver them to the neighbors. They especially looked forward to his watermelon and cantaloupe. He was known—and loved—in the neighborhood as Mr. Green Jeans.
George was a heck of a mechanic. He worked on everything from lawnmower engines to semis, helping anyone in need, and often not even charging for his time.
He was a member of the American Legion, Eagles, and Moose in Rochester. He was in charge of bingo at the Eagles and prepared hog and turkey roasts for their big dinners.
George had a smile that covered his whole face. He was easy going and no one had anything negative to say about him. His kind heart and generous spirit will be forever missed by all who knew him.
He was always very active, but his health began to decline in November of 2023. He spent time in both Woodlawn Hospital of Rochester and Miller’s Merry Manor (where his granddaughter Gerri could keep an eye on him.) He was so appreciative of the care he received in both facilities, forming close bonds with those he came to know. Sitting was not his cup of tea and slowing him down was a challenge—he fought hard to the end.
George is survived by his daughter Susan (Marty) Click, Peru, and his song Ronald E., Mexico; stepdaughter Dixie Frenoy; and stepsons Rex Shepherd and Jimmie Johnson; two granddaughters: Gerri Click, Wabash and Breanna Cole, Atoka, Tennessee; and one great-graddaughter, Kelcie Cole, also of Tennessee. Also surviving are his first wife, Lois Swihart, and his sisters: Janet Strevey, Wabash; Joyce (Jerry) Hudson, Akron; and Karen Aikmna, Ft. Wayne. A dear friend, Judy Kuhn of Rochester, also survives.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Billie; two step-daughter; and he and Lois’ infant son, Larry D.
A celebration of the life of George Swihart will be at 3:00 PM on Friday, June 14, 2024, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester.
Friends may visit with the family for two hours prior to his services.
Pastor Wayne Balmer will officiate.
The Fulton County Veteran's Honor Guard and the United States Army Honor's Team will accord military honors.
Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard.
