John Harvey Swantz was born April 12, 1943, in Kalona, the son of Lester and Lydia (Bender) Swantz. On April 20, 1967, he was united in marriage to Fannie Mae Borkholder, God blessed them with 53 years of wedded life. He was baptized in the Old Order Amish Church and remained a faithful member until his death on Monday, Aug. 3, 2020, at the age of 77 years, 3 months and 22 days, from a subdural hematoma.
He leaves to mourn his departure, his sorrowing companion: Fannie Mae; two daughters and three sons: Lillian (Fred) Gingerich of Irvington, Ky., Loretta (Elson) Miller of Kalona, John David Swantz of Keota, James (Lorena) Swantz of Kalona, and Luke (Karen) Swantz of Bellefontaine, Ohio; 36 grandchildren; two brothers: Henry (Mary) Swantz of Kalona and Amos (Mattie) Swantz of Sugarcreek, Ohio; a nephew and a niece.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother: Samuel; two infant brothers: Marion Joseph and David Paul; a sister: Ruth; and a grandson: Norman Glen Gingerich.
The family would like to thank everyone for the many acts of love and kindness shown to them during this time of loss.
A funeral service was held Friday, Aug. 7, 2020, at the Elson Miller residence, Kalona. Burial was in South Gingerich Cemetery, Kalona.
Yoder-Powell Funeral Home in Kalona is assisting with services. Messages and tributes may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.
