Joel Swigart
Joel Herman Swigart, 49, of Slippery Rock passed away on Feb. 10, 2021, at Butler Memorial Hospital.
He was born March 5, 1971, in Butler, and was the son of the late Herman E. Swigart and the late Barbara J. Swigart.
Joel attended Portersville Christian School, Valley Forge Military Academy, and graduated from Butler High School. He attended Northern Virginia Community College and Mercyhurst University.
Joel worked for Butler County Ford, Butler County Housing Authority, and True Value Hardware as a network help desk specialist.
There were no strangers in Joel’s life. Everyone was a friend he hadn’t yet met. It was impossible for him to go anywhere without stopping to chat. Joel was a friend to all, willing to lend an ear, an opinion, or his assistance. He had an extraordinary talent for making those around him feel special.
There was never a bad day with Joel. He had a gift for being an animated storyteller, using his large physique to enhance his hilarious stories as he laughed and bounced, losing his breath, while recalling vivid details.
Joel’s stature was only surpassed by his big heart and generosity. He will be remembered for his caring personality, compassion for others and his contagious sense of humor.
Joel’s focus in life was his three daughters, their activities and interests. His devotion to his family and friends will remain in the hearts and memories of everyone who knew and loved him.
Joel is survived by his three daughters, Ella Swigart, Lillian Swigart and Adele Swigart of Slippery Rock; two sisters, Susan S. Lichacz of Virginia Beach, Va., and Amy B. Swigart of Slippery Rock; one brother-in-law, Evan (Vashona) McCartney of Greenville, Pa.; two nieces, Aubree McCartney and Alivia McCartney of Greenville, Pa.; and two nephews, Alexander Lichacz of Arlington, Va., and Ian Lichacz of Virginia Beach, Va.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Hannah Dayle Swigart, whom he married Feb. 22, 2003, and who passed away on June 18, 2014.
SWIGART — Family and friends of Joel Herman Swigart, who died Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021, will be received from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday at North Main Street Church of God, 1201 N. Main St. Ext., Butler, with a celebration of life following at 6 p.m., with Angela Kupas officiating.
Private burial will take place in North Side Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thompson-Miller Funeral Home, 124 E. North St., Butler.
The family requests, in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to the Joel Swigart Memorial Fund for his daughters at any PNC Bank.
Online condolences can be given at www.thompson-miller.com.
