Mr. Bernard “Bernie” Swoboda, (81), of St. Louis, graduated to heaven on Wednesday, February 22, at his home. Bernie was born December 12, 1941, in Washington, to the late Anthony and Leola (nee: Eckelkamp) Swoboda.
He graduated from Warrenton High School and proudly served our country in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1965. Following service, his career remained as an electrician but he forever longed for the outdoors and a farm life. Upon retirement, Bernie enjoyed extended visits to his farm in Montgomery County.
Bernie loved the Lord and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many. He was very passionate about people and loved to help and serve those from all walks of life. His heart led him to help endangered children through Village Global, work with foreign exchange students through International Student, Inc, and assist in community disaster relief through Service International. He remained active with his church, St. Louis Family Church. Bernie loved his family and cherished every moment with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Bernie was preceded in death by his first wife, Kazuko “Kay” Swoboda; his parents, Anthony and Leola Swoboda; and son, Thomas Swoboda. Those family members who remain, grateful for sharing in Bernie’s life are his loving wife, Joanne Swoboda; his five children, Theresa Nickle (Mitch), Christopher “Chris” Swoboda (Monica), Matthew Swoboda (Dana), Margaret Gloyd (David), and Loretta “Lora” Townsend (Troy); five stepchildren, John Radin (Inger), Michael Radin, Rebecca Radin, Diana Bell (Drew), and Gary Radin, Jr. (Amelia); seven grandchildren, Christopher Gloyd (Brittany), Rachael Soete (Rob), Zachary Gloyd, Sara Nix (Connor), Noah Gloyd, Brendan Swoboda, and Jordan Swoboda; two great-grandchildren, Aria and Lennon; two step-grandchildren, Ian and George; five siblings; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.
Visitation for Mr. Bernard Swoboda will be on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, from 4 P.M. - 7 P.M. at Martin Funeral Home in Warrenton. A funeral service at the same location will be on Thursday, March 2, at 10 A.M. followed by a graveside service at Sunrise Memorial Gardens in Wellsville. Memorial donations are suggested to Service International or Village Global c/o Martin Funeral Home, in honor of Mr. Bernard Jerome Swoboda.
