Obituary of Richard W Swartz, Sr.

Richard William Swartz Sr., age 90 joined his wife Shirley on September 10, 2023. Richard passed away peacefully. He is predeceased by his wife Shirley Ann Swartz, his parents, James and Lydia Swartz; brother, James; sisters, Esther, Vivian, Lois, Shirley, and Marilyn; and grandson Ricky Swartz. He is survived by his sister, Joan, his four children, Cindy (Randy) Holder (Vestal, NY), Jill (Tim) Fazio (Newark Valley, NY), Richard Swartz Jr. (Binghamton, NY), Wendy (Dennis) Drogo (Ruther Glen, VA); 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Richard was a beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was always the life of the party with his sense of humor and shenanigans. He was very proud of his family. He will be remembered in all things – his contagious smiles and piercing blue eyes, the subtle sound of water that brings you back to summers at the lake, the snow falling and the swooshing of ice skates, or the excitement of kids as they catch the "big" fish of the day. He treasured the time he spent with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids the most. He would always find a way to capture their attention and be their entertainment. He was a big kid at heart. His love was inspiring and an example for all of us. Without a doubt he will be missed, but his playfulness and desire to bring a smile to everyone will never be forgotten. The family would like to thank those that helped care for him, especially his neighbors who always kept a close eye on him and the staff at Ideal Nursing Home for making his stay there a home away from home. Visitation will be at Coleman & Daniels Funeral Home, Main Street, Endicott, NY on Saturday, September 23rd, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM with a memorial service at 11:00 (also at Coleman & Daniels). A brief committal service will be at Riverhurst Cemetery, Main Street, Endwell, NY. A reception to honor and celebrate Richard's life will be held Riverdale Banquet Hall, 2901 Watson Blvd., Endwell, NY 13760 starting at noon, all guests are welcome.