Gerald "Jerry" L. Swygart

Gerald “Jerry” L. Swygart, 76, of Leo, passed away on Thursday, April 12, 2018 at Parkview Regional Medical Center. Born September 15, 1941 in Decatur, he was a son of the late Lafe and Leah (Dibble) Swygart. Jerry attended Decatur High School and enlisted into the U.S. Army at 17 years old. He proudly served in the U.S. Army for over 15 years and continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserves for over 4 years. He served as Military Police, Truckmaster, Tanker, and as aid to two Generals; having served in Vietnam and ultimately earning the rank of First Sergeant. Jerry also was employed with International Harvester for 42 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 409, VFW Post 2457, lifetime member of the DAV, Masonic Lodge #224, and Mizpah Shrine. He enjoyed restoring cars and working in the yard. Jerry loved spending time with his family, children, and grandchildren and will be missed by many. He is survived by beloved wife of 25 years, Rebecca (Hughes) Swygart of Leo; children, Douglas (Donna Haller) Swygart of Fort Wayne, Brent Swygart of Fort Wayne, Christa (Scott) Perrine of Greenfield, Jason (Jennifer) Gerig of Huntertown, Amy (Skip) Shand of Woodburn, and Christine (Aaron) Abbott of New Haven; 13 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and brother, Lafe (Janis) Swygart Jr., of Augusta, Ga. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Brandon Perrine; 11 siblings; sister-in-law, Ellie Swygart; and mother-in-law, Peggy J. Hughes. Funeral Service will be 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at Leo United Methodist Church, 13527 Leo Rd., Leo, with calling one hour prior. Calling will also be from 2-4 & 6-8pm on Monday, April 16, 2018 at Hockemeyer and Miller Funeral Home, 6131 St. Joe Rd., Fort Wayne. Burial at Highland Park Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorials may be made to Leo United Methodist Church or Disabled American Veterans. For online condolences, please visit www.hockemeyermillerfh.com.