David R. Swartz

David R. Swartz, longtime Akronite, passed away on August 6, 2026. Born to parents Ralph C. Swartz and Josephine Rae Pickle on January 25, 1945 he attended Betty Jane Elementary and graduated from Ellet High School in 1963.

Following graduation David enlisted in the US Army completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri. Served in Kirchgoens, Germany before returning stateside for extra training prior to deployment to Vietnam. After active duty he served 20 years with the Army Reserves attaining rank of Sergeant First Class.

Following active military service David went to work for the City of Akron Water Department, retiring in 1996.

David was a committed member of the Masonic Order serving as Past Master of Portage Lakes (now New Franklin Lodge #803). He was a Knight York Cross of Honor serving all York Rite Bodies in Cuyahoga Falls. He also served as Worthy Patron of Falls Chapter #245 and Billows Chapter #483 Order of Eastern Star.

He was a longtime member of the former Church of the Good Shepherd and Family of Faith United Methodist Churches.

Survived by sister Judy (Richard) Hinkle, niece, Jennifer Hinkle Shah and nephew Timothy (April) Hinkle, Grandnieces, Olivia and Madeline Shah and Allison and Audrey Hinkle.

Calling hours will be 12-Noon to 2:00 PM, Monday August 17th, with Masonic and Eastern Star services at 2:00 PM followed by a celebration of life service by Rev. Michael Farmer. Private burial will be held on Tuesday, August 18 at Hillside Memorial Park Mausoleum. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Summit County Humane Society or any pet rescue organization of your choice.

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