Obituary of Kenneth J. Swart

In Loving Memory of Kenneth J. Swart
November 27, 1935 – April 13, 2025

Kenneth J. Swart, 89, a resident of Elverson, sadly left our world on April 13, 2025, after a life richly lived in service and kindness.

Ken was born in Lostine, Oregon on November 27, 1935 to Elmer and Ruth Swart (Shintaffer). He graduated from high school in Hermiston, Oregon. He attended Long Beach University, where he earned his degree in Education, and became a life-long member of Sigma Pi. He went on to receive his Master’s Degree from Whittier College and continued his education at Temple University and Arizona State University.

Ken began his career as an elementary school teacher in California. He later became a principal in Pennsylvania in Owen J. Roberts School District. He served at the North Coventry, Vincent, and East Coventry Elementary Schools for 34 years in total.

Ken was a longtime member of St. Matthew’s United Church of Christ in Chester Springs. He served as a trustee where his faith was demonstrated by his service to the church.

He was also a proud 50+ year member of the Coventry Lions Club and the Masonic Stichter Lodge #254 in Pottstown. He was the most senior member of the Coventry Lions. He enjoyed participating in the Lions KidSight USA program, where he created handmade wooden animals for the children. Ken was a volunteer driver for the Chester County Meals on Wheels Program, and eventually served on the county board. He also enjoyed being a coach for the Middle Atlantic Blind Golf Association.

Ken always looked forward to his fishing trips with family, especially the trips to Canada. He also enjoyed traveling with his wife, Nancy, and vacationing with friends and family.

Ken is survived by his devoted wife Nancy, his brother Harry, and his loving children: Elizabeth Harris (Larry), Stephanie Stamy (Trynon), and Kristen Johns (Frank). He also leaves behind his treasured grandchildren: Max, Devon, Tori, Tyler, Ta-Tahni, Laney, Sydney, Kaelyn (Jessica), and Ashley (Jackson), as well as his great-grandchildren, Theodore and Elliott. He is also survived by many loved nieces and nephews, along with his two dogs, Minnie and Maizie.

He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Irene Ashley, Rae Anderson, Carol Collie, Don Swart, John Swart, James Swart, and Richard Swart.

Friends and relatives are invited to a visitation on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at St. Matthew's UCC, 2350 Conestoga Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425. A memorial service will begin at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ken’s memory to:

St. Matthews United Church of Christ, 2350 Conestoga Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425.

Meals on Wheels of Chester County, 404 Willowbrook Lane, West Chester, PA 19382, or go to Meals on Wheels to make your donation online.

Online condolences can be made at www.sgsfuneralhome.com. All arrangements are being handled by the Shalkop Grace & Strunk Funeral Home.