Gary James Swartz

APPLETON, WISCONSIN - Gary James Swartz, 76, died unexpectedly August 16, 2018 at his home. He was born July 19, 1942 in Ashland, Wisconsin to James Jr. and Marjorie Swartz. Gary was a graduate of Antigo High School, as well as UW-Madison with a degree in accounting.

Gary had a long career in the dairy industry, working as plant manager for Borden’s in New London and the Nestle Company in Hilbert. He had a passion for business development and worked diligently to bring new products to market, especially for the construction industry. Gary’s passion for business development carried over into mentoring local entrepreneurs with the Fox Valley SCORE organization.

While Gary enjoyed his business endeavors, his true calling was serving St. Pius X Church as a faithful volunteer for over 40 years. During that time he served as: Chairman of the Building Committee; Chairman of Update St. Pius; Jubilee Committee member; Project Liaison; and Finance Council Member. In 1989, he was awarded Man of the Year recognizing his contributions to the parish.

Gary also enjoyed volunteering with SOAR and working as a math tutor at Highlands Elementary School. His final contribution will now be as a tissue donor.

Gary will be dearly missed by his wife of 56 years, Kathleen “Kay” (Malak). Children: Stephen (Kathleen Gelino) - Maple Grove, MN; Jeffrey - Green Bay, WI; Anne-Marie Walker (Chris) - Mclean, VA; Julie Michels (Jeffrey) - Appleton, WI; Michael (Rebecca) - Naperville, IL. Grandchildren: Laura, Mark, Madeleine, Olivia, Katherine, Ashley, Ella and Adam.

He is further survived by his brother Kenneth (Jane Hoerman) - Antigo, WI; sister-in-law Janet Jensen (Yulan) - Nekoosa, WI; brother-in-law Eugene Jensen - Nekoosa, WI; brother-in-law Bill Malak (Marsha) - Eugene, OR. He was preceded in death by his parents, Aunt Jean Crego, and a sister-in-law Barbara Jensen.

Gary will be remembered by his loved ones as a hard-working and optimistic husband, father, and grandfather. He instilled in his children the importance of education, dedication, and perseverance. He also instilled in his children a love of all things Wisconsin: Badgers, Packers, and Cheese! Gary was incredibly proud of his family and basked in all their successes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:30 a.m. on Friday, August 31, 2018 at St. Pius X Catholic Parish, 500 W. Marquette Street,  Appleton with The Rev. Adam Bradley officiating. Gary’s family will receive relatives and friends at the church on Friday, from 9:30 to 11:15 a.m. The service will follow at 11:30. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Pius Memorial fund.

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