Obituary of Richard James Swartz

    Richard James “Dick” Swartz, one of three sons of Robert H. and Cleo (Ver Steegh) Swartz, was born in Oskaloosa, IA on February 14, 1941. He spent his youth in the communities of Humeston, Corydon and New Hampton, IA, graduating from New Hampton High School in 1959. He furthered his education at the Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls, IA and later on, at San Diego City College in San Diego, CA.

    In February of 1962, Dick began serving his country with the United States Navy. He was stationed at San Diego, CA and specialized in Aviation Electronics; he was honorably discharged in 1966.

    Dick enjoyed a long, productive career in Procurement and Materials Management, focusing on the construction and defense industries. Over the years, his work took him to several states across the U.S. – Kentucky, Iowa, Minnesota, and Colorado. To help offset the responsibilities associated with his work, Dick found an hour or two of physical exercise would balance things out. Since he liked being outdoors anyway, running and cycling were part of his weekly routine. He also “had a way” with cars and could spend several hours with his head under the hood trying to make it run like a clock.      

    On June 17, 2000, Dick was united in marriage to Kathryn Ann “Kathi” Daggett at Spencer, IA, beginning their life together in Lakewood, CO. Dick retired soon after, and looked forward to spending more time with Kathi, their dog, Bentley, and his five grandchildren. As the grandkids were growing up, Dick had made many trips driving from Colorado or Iowa to Minnesota, wanting to catch their sporting and school events or to help his daughter and husband out as he was needed. It also gave him a chance to share stories with his grandkids and make some memories they all would treasure. Now, being retired, he could make the trip in a more leisurely fashion, visiting other family or friends when it was convenient. He thoroughly enjoyed the times they spent at the Daggett family farm; there was always something to help with or work on, and Kathi’s Mom made sure there was plenty of good food to eat at the end of the day.     

    On Saturday, February 11, 2023, Dick passed from this life at the age of 81 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert H. and Cleo Swartz; his brother, Robert L. Swartz; and his beloved Golden Retriever, Bentley.

    Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Kathi Swartz of Sanborn, IA; his daughter, Katie and her husband, Chris Rousemiller of Lakeville, MN; five grandchildren: Amanda (David) Edwards, Connor (Erika) Rousemiller, Eric Rousemiller, William Rousemiller, and Nicholas Rousemiller; his brother, Fred Swartz of East Lansing, MI; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.