Robert W. Swanker, Sr.'s Obituary
Mr. Robert W. Swanker, Sr., age 92, passed away Saturday morning, April 11, 2009. He was born June 13, 1916 in Muskegon to Bert J. and Mabel (Gibbs) Swanker. Mr. Swanker was a 1936 graduate of Muskegon High School, where he held the State record for many years in the 100 yard and 220 yard dash. He also was a 63 year consecutive season ticket holder for the Big Red football team, which he was very proud of. Mr. Swanker worked for Tri City Tool and Die for many years before retiring. He had been a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church for many years, enjoyed listening and dancing to music, and also enjoyed his many years of wintering in Florida. On June 24, 1938 he married the former Brunhilda “Bea” Mazeikis in Muskegon and she survives him along with 4 children, Robert W. (Jan) Swanker, Jr. of Roosevelt Park, James (Bonnie) Swanker of Norton Shores, Mari (Dayre) Newport of Davis, IL, Jack D. Swanker of Roosevelt Park; 13 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson; sister, Charlotte Zagaroli of Hickory, North Carolina; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Sandra Kibbey and a sister, Margrathe Blakeman. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 3:00 PM Thursday at
The Walburn Chapel
Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc.
1547 W. Sherman Blvd.
(231) 759-8565
with Rev. Thomas Scott officiating. Burial will take place in Norton Cemetery. VISITATION with the family will be from 2-4 & 6-8 PM Wednesday. MEMORIALS to Harbor Hospice or the Noah Project will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their On-line Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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