Wilbur Swartzell

Wilbur F. Swartzell, Jr. age 95, of Fairview, passed away Sunday, April 28. 2013 at Manchester Commons.

He was born in Erie on June 28, 1917, a son of the

late Wilbur F. Sr. and Rachel McClenahan Swartzell.

Wilbur graduated from Strong Vincent High School and went on to serve in the United States Army during WWII.

He began working for the US Postal Service as a mail carrier and retired as Superintendent of Mails after 35 years of service.

Wilbur was a member of Wayside Presbyterian Church, serving in many leadership positions and was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.

He was also very active in many Masonic groups, including Tyrian Commonwealth Lodge No. 362 F. & A. M., was Past Thrice Illustrious Master Jerusalem Council No. 33 Royal and Select Masters, Secretary Temple Royal Arch Chapter No. 215 and was a member of St. John's Conclave Red Cross of Constantine.

He was an avid reader and enjoyed golfing, fishing and camping.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister Helen Rentja.

He is survived by his wife of almost 73 years, Dorothy Weismore Swartzell; a daughter, Barbara Wagner and her husband David of Edinboro, a son David Swartzell and his wife Dorothy of Marietta, GA; three grandchildren, Robert Wagner and his wife Amy, Andrea Swartzell and Michael Swartzell and his wife Brittany; and four great grandchildren, Joseph, Grace, Mackenzie and Ethan.

Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home 3801 W. 26th Street (at Powell Ave) on Thursday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at 1:30 p.m. with Reverend Keith Sundberg officiating. Burial will follow in Erie Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Presbyterian Homes Caring for Life Fund 1225 School Road, Erie, Pa. 16505, Wayside Presbyterian Church 1208 Asbury Road, Erie, PA 16505 or to the charity of one's choice.