August 5, 1943 - February 24, 2010

Robert Swearingen

The greatest man I ever knew wasn't wealthy or famous.  He was just a regular guy with a big heart, a sense of humor, a sense of fairness, a guy who always tried to do the right thing, always giving a hundred and ten percent to whatever he was doing.  That's the way he loved me, his kids and grandkids, his job, his home, and cherished his friends.  Always up before the alarm and ready to get to work, every day, his enthusiasm for the next project never waned; and he could go on and on if you asked him about his cars or country dancing.  But that big deep voice and infectious laugh are silent now, and those big strong calloused hands are still, taking a rest he really wasn't ready for.  He will be missed so very much but the funny stories and individual memories will live on in our hearts and for many, our homes as well because he probably fixed or built something for you too.

He was born in Bloomington, IL to Vera Swearingen and the late Lyle Swearingen.  After honorable discharge from the Navy, he worked in one phase or another in the construction trade for his entire adult life.  His proudest accomplishments were the projects he managed for Michael Walker and Associates.

Bob leaves behind his wife and dance partner, Carol; his beloved mother Vera of Macon, IL; his brothers Dave of Leroy, IL, and Rick of Downs, IL; daughters Bobbie Reiter (Steve) and Cami Richardson (Kalvin), all of Jacksonville; son Chad and grandson Cory of North Port; and grandaughters Baleigh and Brianna Reiter of Jacksonville; as well as many beloved friends and co-workers.

A celebration of Bob's life will be held Sunday, March 28 at the Lakewood Ranch Holiday Inn, 1-5 pm.  Please join us for refreshments, music, dancing, and video presentation of his life story.  Exit I-75 at University Parkway.  Proceeding east, turn right (south) at the first light (Lake Osprey) and follow the road around to the hotel.

Donations can be made to TideWell Hospice in Bob's memory.

Appears to be written by Bob's wife for the Celebration of his life.                                               

He was living in Myakka City, Florida and died of cancer.