Tom Swauger Death: Tom Swauger, a volunteer firefighter with the DuBois Volunteer Fire Department, has unfortunately died away. He passed away on Friday, March 15, 2024, leaving behind his cherished friends, family, and coworkers who will always mourn him.
A Facebook post stating, “It is with great sadness the DVFD shares the passing of former Fire Chief Tom Swauger,” served as confirmation of his death. His family is in our prayers and thoughts. The details surrounding Tom Swauger’s death’s true cause are still unknown.
Birth of Tom Swauger
Tom Swauger, the beloved son of Bruce Charles and Ruth Bloom Swauger, was born in McCartney, Pennsylvania, on March 16, 1938. We all loved him as “Tom.” St. Peter’s United Church of Christ in DuBois was deeply ingrained in his family, giving him a feeling of security and acceptance. In 1956, he became a member of the DuBois Volunteer Fire Department and dedicated himself to Volunteer Hose Co #1. This marked the start of his tenure at the department. As he advanced through the ranks to become Chief in 1971 and 1972, he demonstrated his leadership skills by leading the agency through the chaotic floods caused by Hurricane Agnes.
Career of Tom Swauger
Tom has been a beacon of hope for many firefighters from the start of his incredible 68-year career. He mentored them till the very end of his life.
Fitzpatrick’s Roofing, Rockwell Manufacturing, Busy Bee Builders, Bob Taylor Fire Equipment Sales & Service, Gnan Plumbing & Heating, Swauger Plumbing & Heating, DuBois Area School District, Overdorf Plumbing & Heating, and Hovis were just a few of the businesses he worked for throughout his career, which was a tapestry of skill. Tom’s life was a masterfully crafted tapestry.
Aside from his job, Tom found contentment in life’s simpler things. Whether it was the rush of a hunt, the tranquilly of fly fishing, or the excitement of leading the Swauger Racing #28 Team, he seized every chance.
In addition, his grandfather’s heart brimmed with joy as he supported his great-grandchildren and grandkids throughout their athletic endeavours. Not only will his accomplishments leave a lasting legacy, but he will also be remembered for his captivating storytelling, his ability to solve problems, and the priceless skills he imparted to others.
Tom Swauger Death Notice
Nancy Ann (Ord) Swauger, his wife of 64 years, survives him. His brothers Dave and Jim, sister Dorothy Hendricks, and son Chuck all passed away before him in addition to his parents. His daughter Cathy (Doug) McMillen, sons Steve (Melinda) and Sam Swauger (fiance Erin Battaglia), grandchildren Kelly (Ardie) McCall, Doug McMillen, Angela (Brian) Stewart, Bryce Swauger (fiance Makayla Solada), Justin Swauger, Danielle (Shane) Rode, Steven (Carley) Rode, Madisan Cable, Katy McGahey, Max McGahey; great grandchildren Draven Stewart, Jackson McCall, Skylar and Emily Rode, and Alexander Schaeffer; siblings Carol Cloak, Bob Swauger, Nancy (John) Murray; in-laws Bev (John) Peterson, Don (Doris) Ord, and a host of nieces and nephews will all miss him dearly.
Monday, March 18, 2024, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., is when visitors may visit the Baronick Funeral Home & Crematorium, Inc. Pastor Robert Newell will preside over a funeral ceremony that will take place from the funeral home on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. Morningside Cemetery will be the site of the funeral.
