Obituary of Willard F. Swartz

Willard F. Swartz, 74, formerly of Nelliston, died peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2009 at the St. Johnsville Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. Born on December 8, 1934 in Sprakers, he was a son of Ralph and Marjorie Armstrong Swartz. A lifelong area resident, Willard attended Fort Plain schools. He was employed for over 40 years for Beech- Nut in Canajoharie until his retirement. Willard enjoyed bowling, golfing and playing softball in his younger years. He was also a member of the Moose in Canajoharie for a time. He was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Kenneth Swartz. His loving family includes his brother, Ralph Swartz and his wife Thelma of Nelliston; two nieces, Cheryl Swartz of Mayfield and Karen Don Bennett of Mayfield; four nephews, Robert Tina Swartz of Fort Plain, Tim and Ralph Swartz of Fort Hunter, and Willard Darlene Swartz of Amsterdam. He is also survived by his many lifelong friends including Elliot Collins and Abe Biltucci. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 11 o'clock at the Lenz & Betz Funeral Home, 69 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, with the Rev. Kenneth Dingman officiating. Interment will take place at a later date in the Fort Plain Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited and may call Monday evening from 4 until 7 at the funeral home. There also will be a calling hour from 10 until 11 on Tuesday, prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society, 260 Osborne Road, Albany, NY 12211.