Calvin L. Swats

CALVIN L. SWATS  Staunton, VA… Calvin Lee Swats, 91, widower of Louise R. Swats, of Staunton, went to be with the Lord and his wife, Louise Swats of 68 years, on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at Legacy at North Augusta. Mr. Swats was born on March 21, 1926 in Hinton, West Virginia to the late James A. and Iona (Stover) Swats of Swoope. He attended Beverley Manor High School.  He was a veteran of the US Navy, serving in World War II and the Korean War with the Underwater Demolition Team 18 Navy Frogmen and received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.  Calvin retired from Goodyear 30 plus years as a manager before retiring to Hague, VA.  He enjoyed the river, gardening and flowers.  He volunteered with Staunton Augusta Rescue, then later with Forest View Rescue. He loved telling stories of his military years, singing hymns and reading his Bible daily. Mr. Swats is survived by two sons, Donald L. Swats and Donna of Murrells Inlet, SC, Gary W. Swats and wife Helen of Churchville; grandchildren, Jason N. Swats and wife, Casey of Churchville, M. Casey Swats of Swoope, Martha Swats-Devitch and Sean of New Hampshire and Maggie Merand and Frankie of Richmond; great-grandchildren, Kaylee Swats, Chelsea Merand, Eliza and Stella Swats; step grandsons, Gavyn and Liam Collier; nieces and nephews, close niece, Jane Harris and a sister-in-law, Dorothy Farrish. In addition to his wife and parents, he is preceded in death by five brothers, James, Rudolph, Harry, Charles and Raymond and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be conducted at 11:00 am on Friday, November 24, 2017 at Augusta Memorial Park in Fishersville by Rev. Bob Sharp with a reception following at Marquis Memorial United Methodist Church Social Hall, 1614 West Beverley Street, Staunton, VA.   Graveside rites will be conducted by Augusta-Staunton VFW Post 2216. Memorials may be made to Staunton Augusta Rescue Squad, 1601 North Coalter Street, Staunton, VA, 24401.