Wayne Harvey Swartz

Wayne Harvey Swartz, 88, of York, IL, died at 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 in the comfort of his home. He was born October 29, 1929 in Robinson, IL, the son of Grover Swartz & Loretta (Berry) Swartz, both of whom preceded him in death. He married Shirley Covich on October 29, 1957, and she preceded him in death on November 18, 2003. He was also preceded in death by his brothers and sisters, Evelyn Knotts, Bernice Sylvester, Paul Swartz, and Melvin Swartz. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Georgia “Sis” Swartz; grandson, Ethan Blankenbeker; and granddaughter, Samantha Swartz. Wayne grew up in Robinson, IL and was a graduate of Hutsonville High School. At the age of 17, he became an ironworker, a title he wore proudly for the rest of his life. A longtime member of Ironworkers Local #439, Wayne was the first instructor of their successful apprenticeship program. Away from work, he could often be found outdoors and spent countless hours both gardening and building structures on his own property or for others. He was, by all accounts, an accomplished woodworker, who left several treasured pieces behind for his many friends and family. A time of visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 29th at the Prust-Hosch Funeral Home in West Union, IL. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 30th at the funeral home with burial following in the York Cemetery. Memorials may be made to York Cemetery, with envelopes available at the funeral home.