Obituaries
Joseph E. Swatski, 90
October 04, 2022
Joseph E. Swatski, 90, of Lancaster passed away October 4, 2022. He was born to the late Edward and Blanche Swatski in Kulpmont, PA. He worked in the Merchant Marines, and proudly served his country in the Army.
Following his military career, Joseph spent over 40 years as a realtor. He was well known throughout Lancaster and served as president of the Lancaster Real Estate Board. One of his favorite things to eat was pancakes and sausage. He also had a bit of a sweet tooth and was fond of treats. Joseph enjoyed dancing with his wife, Margaret, in both the Cotillion and Unwind dance clubs. He was also a member of the Elks. Joseph was a family man and loved his children and grandchildren dearly. He was always quick to share a phrase or two like; “if you ain’t happy, get happy” and “You’ll get better before you get married”. He would often take his loved ones to Knoebels and it became a tradition the family carries on today.
Joseph is survived by his wife of 33 years, Margaret Swatski of Lancaster; his children Douglas Swatski (Janet) of N. Andover, MA, Dianne Hamel (Keith) of Gloucester, MA, and stepdaughter Laurie Rice (Marv) of Springfield GA; his sister Joan Long of Shamokin, PA; 8 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Along with his parents he is proceeded in passing by his brothers David Swatski and Albert Swatski, and his first wife Ann Swatski.
A service will take place at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Joseph’s name to Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Dr, Lancaster, PA 17604.
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Condolences to the Family
June 21, 2023
Doug & Dianne, I’m just seeing this Wednesday evening, June 21, after stumbling on your father’s obituary when looking for a relative who’d passed on. So sorry to hear of his passing and please accept my condolences, belated though they are. Your dad exemplified the meaning of “a life well lived.”
Though I’d not seen him (or either of you) for many years, the memories of the house by Lafayette Elementary and, then, when you moved to Hempfield a few years later (and Doug was assigned my Rohrerstown class!) and, finally, the high school years and HHS swimming at Golden Meadows. I see you’re both in Massachusetts; as I’m in Northern VA, maybe a FaceTime reunion is called for?! I drive by IAD regularly and even drop my elder daughter at the airport for her bus ride to Virginia Tech; each and every time, I think of that day trip when your mom drove us to Dulles Intnatl … back then, there was still an observation deck accessible to non-travelers who simply wanted to watch takeoffs & landings al fresco. Landline is 703-444-2086; I’d love to hear from you… Jonathan Perezous
October 12, 2022
I am sorry for your loss.Joe sold us our first house,and then our bigger second house.He was a nice man,I just wanted to tell you that.May he rest in peace
October 09, 2022
In Memory of Joe Swatski. Larry and I have many wonderful memories of alot of Trips,dances and many dinners with Joe and Margie ,Ling time great friends. Joe always haf a little tune for almost anything. He will certainly be miss by his wife and many friends. Rest in the arms of the Lord Joe. We will all see you again. Sincerely, Larry and Celene
October 09, 2022
Marge. Joyce Dusman here….just had gotten the Lanc. Sunday paper and saw Joe passed away. I have my hands full here so I don’t always go and get a Lancaster Paper daily. I heart goes out to you and family. We had had some great times and laughs over the years….but like most folks life gives us “curve balls” and we lose touch with many long time friends. When you have time do give a call at your convenience. I will let Dick know but uncertain it will “click”….Take care of yourself and my prayers are will you all. 717-577-4150 is my # Love you, Joyce Dusman
