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Clarence Lester “Bud” Swihart, age 73, of Mendon, went to be with the Lord while surrounded by his loving family on Friday March 1, 2013.
He was born March 31, 1939, in Colon, a son of Walter and Ethel (Ware) Swihart. He worked at several area family farms while attending Colon Schools. He served with the U.S. Army and then became an independent trucker, traveling across the United States. He later operated Bud’s Small Engine Repair in Mendon.
Bud attended Crossroads Missionary Church. He was a member of the Free & Accepted Masonic Lodge #137 and the Order of Easter Star Chapter #154.
He was a model car collector and a supporter of the International Student Exchange Program and had hosted 22 foreign exchange students. The family would like to express their thanks to the Three Rivers Health ICU, his home health care workers, and the Borgess VNA & Hospice for their compassionate care.
On Dec. 2, 1975, Bud married Betty Jane Smith in Jackson. She survives, along with two sons, Lester “Ponch” (Evie) and Robbie; three daughters, Pamela, Terrie and Rosella; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; four sisters, Phyllis Varner, Janette (Jay) Kelley, Carol Wadsworth and Denise (David) Cook; six brothers, Walter (Sandy) Swihart, Bob Swihart, Ron (Pat) Swihart, Chuck Swihart, Tom (Diane) Swihart, and Ricky Swihart; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Bruce Allen Smith; a sister, Constance; two brothers, Harold and James; and a niece, Debbie Kelley.
Cremation has been conducted. The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. Sunday at Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon, where Masonic Rites will take place at 4 p.m. Sunday.
Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, March 4, 2013, at Crossroads Missionary Church, with Pastor Bryan Balasa officiating.
The family suggests that donations be directed t0 F&AM Lodge #137, or to Animal Rescue Fund.
Online condolences may be left at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com.
