William ‘Bill’ Leroy Swihart passed away July 13, 2022, peacefully at the Skagit Life Care Center in Sedro-Woolley, Washington from long term ailments. Bill was born September 3, 1953, to Joseph William and Alberta Ruth (Pitman) Swihart in Sedro-Woolley. Bill was married to Vicki Deanna Parker for over 35 years, and they spent all their time raising their four kids, Roy, Norman, Alice, and Jeremiah.
Bill joined the United States Navy in 1972 and served his country during the tail end of the Vietnam War until he was honorably discharged in 1976. He made his way back home to his roots in Sedro-Woolley.
Once back home, Bill worked many different jobs, but his claim to fame was always turning wrenches. He was an outstanding heavy equipment mechanic and made a great career of doing what he loved. He worked in many different industries, County, State, Military, Logging, Heavy Civil Construction and finally retired from Pape Machinery running the shop in Mount Vernon, WA.
Bill was always there to help anyone in need. If they had a rig that needed worked on, he was there to help. If a fellow mechanic didn’t have the answer, Bill was the one they called on. He truly loved helping others learn.
For us kids, we didn’t go on vacations, but we sure enjoyed those Sunday Drives in the hills of Hamilton, conversations around the dinner table, and how secure he made us all feel that everything was gonna be ok.
Things he loved: hotrods, racing, momma, and the kids. Maybe in that order 😊
Bill is survived by his five children, Roy, Jennifer, Norman, Alice, and Jeremiah; sister, Martha; two nephews, Paul and Jeff; multiple grandchildren and handful of great grandchildren; cousins, friends and coworkers.
He was preceded in death by his mom, dad, wife, and sister, Judy.
The family would like to say a special thank you to the staff of the Skagit Life Care Center in Sedro-Woolley for doing such an amazing job caring for Bill.
A Graveside Service will be held at the Lyman Cemetery on Saturday July 23, 2022 at 2:00PM in the care of Lemley Chapel. There will be a potluck to follow there at the Lyman Park. Bring a dish to share! Please send all flowers and cards to Lemley Chapel. Thank you! Share your memories of Bill and sign the online guest register.
