Gary "Spanky" Edward Swope

Gary was born June 9, 1943 in St. Joseph, MO to George Edward and Donna Rae (Harmon) Swope. They preceded him in death.

He was also preceded in death by his son, Josiah Swope; two son-in-laws, Steven “Skinner” Mank and Wade Wynkoop.

He is survived by his children, Kim Duke of St. Joseph, MO, Heather Swope of Freeburg, IL, Jason Swope (Angie Ames) of Freeburg, IL, Joseph Swope of Belleville, IL, Ronnie Kolodgie (Ian Garland) of Belleville, IL and Allie Swope of Mascoutah, IL; daughter-in-law, Brandi Swope of Collinsville, IL; grandchildren, Cameron Mank (Trisha), Chase (Emily) Mank, Blu-Jem (Zak) Adams, Sky-Cloud Swope, Dalton Fortier and Ella Fortier; great-grandchildren, Autumn Mank, Sapphire Sue Adams, Samuel Adams and Dylan Adams; Greg Muehlenbacher of St. Joseph, MO; and his dog, Bailey.

Gary proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Gary loved riding motorcycles, a passion he passed on to his children. He was a retired member of the 100 MPH Club and a member of the Judo Association. He also enjoyed working on model trains.

He worked at Ellis School as a head custodian for many years. He also coached both basketball and soccer prior to retirement. He love sports, especially the St. Louis Cardinals football team years ago.

Gary will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation for Gary will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 from 11:00 A.M.- 1:30 P.M. at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights, IL. Final interment will follow at 2:30 P.M. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO, where full military honors will be rendered.