Richey L. Swartz Sr., 85, of Burbank, passed away Saturday, June 21, 2008, at his home.

He was born April 14, 1923, in Scotland County, Mo., to William H. and Edna (Lawrence) Swartz. He was a graduate of Memphis Missouri High School and attended numerous school reunions over the years. He and his family moved to Burbank in 1943, and that same year Richey entered the Army, serving in the Company B 709th Tank Battalion from 1943-46. He served in the European Theatre and in five major campaigns, including the Battle of the Bulge. At one time, he served under General Patton. In later years, he traveled to various states to attend his Army reunions. Richey retired from Leslie Locke Manufacturing in Lodi following 26 years of service, and also operated a small farm west of Burbank. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. He served on the Burbank Fire Department and EMS, and worked numerous years at the Sticky Finger Sugar Camp. He was an avid turkey, bear and deer hunter and enjoyed hunting with family and friends at the camp near Fort Alleghany, Pa. He enjoyed woodworking and storytelling.

Richey is survived by his wife, Frances, whom he married June 9, 1946; children, Daniel (Kris) Swartz of West Salem, Bonnie (Bob) Rogal of Newcomerstown, Mary (Fred) Schwartz of Burbank and Betty Swartz of Burbank; daughter-in-law, Pat Gray of West Salem; grandchildren, Cortney (Larry) Fairbanks, Jennifer Glancy, Paul (Lisa) Swartz, Greg Swartz, Ryan Swartz, Sam Rogal, Nic Swartz, Amanda (Paul) Sand, Erin (Danny) Yourd, Kyle Painter and Daniel Painter; great-grandchildren, Emily, Blair, Kayla, Noah and Katie; sisters, Carrie (Dwight) Keltz of Seville, Mary (Arthur) Christopher of Smithville and Loretta (Charlie) Walter of Maricopa, Ariz.; brother, William (Brenda) Swartz II of Arcadia, Fla.; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Richey Swartz Jr.; and sister, Elaine Brown.

Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday at Murray Funeral Home, 173 S. Main St., Creston, with the Rev. Timothy Bleigh officiating.

Burial: Burbank Cemetery.

Visiting hours: 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Hospice and Palliative Care of Greater Wayne County, 2525 Back Orrville Road, Wooster, 44691; or Trinity United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 127, Burbank, 44214.