Ward Swartz

Ward Swartz, age 80, of Millington, MI passed away at his L’Anse home on Monday, September 26, 2022. He was born in L’Anse on May 18, 1942, the son of the late John “Mickey” and Clara (Knapp) Swartz.

Professionally Ward graduated from L’Anse High School in 1960 where he played football, basketball and ran track. Ward served in the United States Army and following his honorable discharge from the Army he relocated to Millington, MI.  Ward worked for GM for 30 years, retired in 1994 and enjoyed 28 years of retired life.  Following his passion for work and the UP he worked as a snowmobile trail groomer in Baraga County.  He also worked as an electrical apprentice for the greatest electrical contractor in the Nation.  Wrapping up his professional career as lifetime executive committee member of Da Cup Tournament.

Personally Ward was led to the love of his life by the relationship his brother Bill & wife Ann had with the DuRussel family of Munger.  Ward married Nancy DuRussel on February 17, 1969.  Ward and Nancy had two fantastic children Deb (Shawn) Shamel & Jeff (Renee) Swartz.  Ward was a member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, Eagles Club & L’Anse American Legion Post #144. Ward enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, playing cards, visiting, buggy riding & keeping up with his grandchildren.

Ward is survived by his truly amazing wife Nancy, fantastic children Deb (Shawn) Shamel of Vassar, MI, and Jeff (Renee) of Davisburg, MI, grandchildren Sophia, Carmen, Colton & Cayden, brother Roland (Cheryl “Dodo”) Swartz of L’Anse, sister Amelia “Dolly” Sapcut of Baraga and countless nieces, nephews, and cousins. Ward was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Wayne, Clyde, Jerry, Bill and infant brother Baby Blue and his sister Pearl Thoresen.

The Swartz family will receive friends at the Hanlin Funeral Home in Millington, MI on Thursday from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm. In keeping with Wards wishes cremation will follow. You’re welcome to express personal condolences, share a memory, or light a candle at hanlinfuneralhome.com and click on the Tribute Wall tab. Memorial Gifts of Remembrance can be directed to a charity of one’s choice.

HANLIN FUNERAL HOMES

Serving Since 1928

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Four Generations

Millington & Vassar, Michigan