Thomas "Cliff" Swartz

Thomas Clifford "Cliff" Swartz, 79, of Joplin, MO, went to meet the Lord on July 12, 2011. Funeral services will be 10 a.m., Thursday, July 21, 2011 at McGilley & George Funeral Home in Grandview, MO. Visitation is 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, July 20, 2011, at the funeral home. Burial in Freeman, MO. Cliff was born on July 16, 1931 and was raised in Grandview, MO. Upon graduation from high school, he proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War era. He was president of Comfort Equipment Co. in Kansas City, MO; President of Royal Industries in Holden, MO; and Vice-President of Power Flame in Parsons, KS; and always claimed that business was his favorite hobby. Cliff and his wife, Judy, were devoted foster parents and, as a result, he leaves a large extended family throughout the Joplin area. Survivors include his wife, Judith, of the home; a sister, Christina Bock, of Lees' Summit, MO; and six children: Tom Swartz, Doug Swartz, Kim Thornsberry, David Swartz, Ashley Pritchard, and Joshua Swartz. Cliff is also survived by seven step- children: Charles Locascio, Pam Lakey, David Locascio, Mary Roberts, Russell Locascio, Jim Burns, and Janie Breckenridge. He is also survived by 25 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. The family would also like to thank Crystal Gilbert for her love, affection, and support throughout the years. Condolences may be made at www.mcgilleygeorgegrandview.com. McGilley & George Funeral Home, 12913 Grandview Rd, Grandview, MO 64030, 816-966-0250