Thomas Swanger

Obituary of Thomas Swanger

His name was Tom Swanger, and by wolves he was raised.

He could fix anything in sight, which left us amazed.

Born in New Jersey, growing up with the Kanes

And his two older sisters, the leaders of all games.

Traveling the world, in the Coast Guard he served,

Learning new skills, meeting new people, earning the Honorable Discharge he deserved.

A life full of happiness led him to Kalamazoo,

Where he met Julie Ray and the two soon said "I do".

Raising three girls made them a fun family of five,

But adding a dog made him the happiest man alive.

Summers at the cottage spent out on the lake,

Sunset cruises, jet ski rides, and the memories we did make.

Every moment in our house was filled with great laughter,

Neighborhood parties, coffee table dancing, and reminiscing after.

Tom has led an incredible life full of family and friends,

And just like his wedding ring, our memories of him will never end.

Thomas Edmond Swanger, 58, passed away at home, surrounded by his family, on November 10th, 2019in Stow, Ohio. He was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, to Tom and Peggy Swanger on March 17th, 1961. He is survived by his mother, Peggy (Riddle) Swanger; his sisters, Marian (Scott) Singer and Barbara (Ed) Endzel; his wife of 32 years, Julie (Ray) Swanger; and his daughters and their husbands, Katie and Aaron Uher, Ellie and Jeff Steiger, Jessie Swanger and Jake Miller. He is preceded in death by his father, Thomas N. Swanger. We will always remember Tom's love, laughter, and incredible sense of humor. The family will hold a private celebration. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to team Swanger Strong at Head for the Cure.