Raphael Lagene Swiatek's Obituary
Mr. Raphael Lagene “Ralph” Swiatek, age 86, passed away on Monday, November 16, 2020 in Muskegon, Michigan. He was born in Muskegon on January 3, 1934 to Franciszek “Frank” and Wyktoria “Victoria” (Macior) Swiatek and was a life-long resident of the area. On July 27, 1957, Ralph married the former Karlene Marie Koniarski at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Muskegon. Ralph proudly served his country during the Korean War from 1952-1956 while in the United States Navy. He was employed by Brunswick Corporation for 45 years prior to his retirement in 1997. Ralph was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Church and the Polish Union (PRCUA). He was an avid outdoorsman and valued the preservation of nature. He enjoyed hunting, camping, golfing and spending time with family. He was also a sports enthusiast and spent many years playing baseball and softball. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Karlene; three daughters, Louise (Brian Todd) Swiatek, Catherine Swiatek, and Susan (Douglas) Isenga; four grandchildren, Jason (Amanda) Isenga, Nicholas Isenga, Morghan Isenga, and Camille Isenga; four great-grandchildren, Lakelyn, Londyn, Zaxtyn, and Zayn; one sister, Lillian Chandonnet; brother-in-law, Karl Koniarski; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Edward Swiatek, Helen Frances “Frannie” Halasinski, Stanley “Spike” Swiatek, Arthur Swiatek, Alfred Swiatek, Walter Swiatek, and Genowefa “Jenny” Swiatek. Due to Covid-19 and concerns with social distancing, a PRIVATE GRAVESIDE SERVICE will be held for Ralph at St. Mary’s Cemetery. A LIFE CELEBRATION EVENT will be announced at a later date. MEMORIALS in his memory may be directed to Christian Care Nursing Center, the Fr. Thomas Hack Scholarship Fund or the Muskegon Humane Society. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.
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