November 11, 1925 — June 13, 2023
John D. “Jack” Swymer, of North Reading, formerly of Reading, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. He was 97 years of age.
Jack was very active at St. Agnes Church in Reading. He taught religious education at the church until he was 92 years of age. He volunteered on the Parish Council for many years, was a eucharistic minister and an acolyte for funeral masses. In 2011 he was awarded the Cheverus Award. The recipients are chosen for their service to the Church and God’s people. Most recipients are nominated by their pastor, forwarded by their area vicar, and approved by their regional bishop and Cardinal O’Malley. Some recipients are personally selected by Cardinal O’Malley.
Jack defended our freedom as a member of the United States Navy. He drove the landing craft, landing people on the beach at the Normandy Invasion when he was 18 years old.
Jack led a very active life. He loved skiing and did so until he was 89 years old. He loved woodworking and made cradles for his grandchildren, tables for St. Agnes Church, doll houses and many other precious pieces of furniture. He also was a little league coach for many years in Reading.
Jack is the beloved husband of 72 years to Ruth D. (Marr) Swymer. He is the devoted father of Catherine Fraser and her husband Thomas, Kenneth Swymer and his wife Noreen, Cynthia Tufts and her husband William, Ernest Swymer and his wife Linda, Susan Myette and her husband Michael and Ruth Harbilas and her husband Spiro. Loving grandfather of 14 and great-grandfather of 17. Dear brother James Swymer and Eleanor Swymer.
Family and friends are kindly invited to attend a Funeral Mass Celebrating Jack’s Eternal Life on Saturday, June 17th, 2023 at 11 am.
Please consider donations in memory of Jack to the St. Agnes Building Fund 186 Woburn St. Reading MA 01867.
