Woody DeSwarte

Woody was born in Milwaukee, WI to Walter and Dorothy DeSwarte on March 7, 1947. He married the love of his life, Norma Jean (Jeannie) DeSwarte on August 12, 1967. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War and served in the Army ‘s 1st Infantry Division. He wore the “Big Red One” patch proudly. He began his working career as a master carpenter and had his own business “Woody’s workshop” for many years. For the past 20 years he worked as a Firearms Instructor for the Metropolitan Police Academy where he loved everything about his job and those he mentored and trained. Woody continued with wood working as a hobby and was very active in the Fairfax Rod and Gun Club where he was range certified.

Woody was a humble man. One of honesty, and true integrity. He had an amazing work ethic and a deep love for his family. There was no doubt how much he adored and cherished his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family. He was an exceptional husband, father, “papa”, and friend. He was so proud of the family he began and loved each one of them beyond measure. He would say another one of his greatest accomplishments is that he was happily married to Jeannie for 57 years! There will be an incredible void in our lives without him in it.

Darrell Walter “Woody” DeSwarte is preceded in death by his parents, Walter F. & Dorothy M. (Currie) DeSwarte.

Woody is survived by his wife, Jeannie DeSwarte; daughters, Shelly Illemszky, Lisa Harrison, and Nikki DeSwarte; sons-in-law, Gy Illemszky and Bobby Harrison; sisters, Sharron Culver and Darlene Chester; grandchildren, Skyler Pagnella, Shelly Pagnella, Makayla Illemszky, Lukas Illemszky, Nikolas Illemszky, Gage Pagnella, Zachary Harrison, Claudia Harrison, and Anthony Harrison.

A Celebration of Life will be held March 29, 2025 at 1:00pm at Cameron Run Regional Park in Shelter #1.

In lieu of flowers, you may send a donation to: The Journey Church, 6427 Franconia Rd., Springfield, VA 22150 in memory of Woody DeSwarte for the “Accessible Playground Fund” a playground for children of all abilities.

The family would like to extend our sincerest thanks to the overwhelming love and support we are receiving from our family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.