Charles Melvin “Mel” Swartz, 74, of Ohesson Manor, Lewistown and formerly of Mifflintown died at 4:50 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2015 at the manor.
Born on March 23, 1941 in Spruce Hill Township, Juniata County, he was a son of the late William and Miriam (Ernest) Swartz. On July 31, 1965 he married his surviving wife of nearly 50 years, Linda K. (Rodkey) Swartz.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Douglas T. Swartz and his wife Tara, of Mifflintown, Jo E. Shafranich and her husband William, of Reedsville, Shelly L. Elder and her husband Matthew, of Mifflintown, siblings, Paul W. Swartz, of Jersey Shore, Mary E. Baker and her husband Donald, of Reedsville, Carl N. Swartz and his wife Nancy, of Port Royal, 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
He was a 1960 graduate of Juniata Joint High School, Mifflintown and a member of the Westminster United Presbyterian Church, Mifflintown where he served on the Board of Trustees, the Call Committee and he had taught Sunday school. He proudly served his country for six years in the National Guard.
Mr. Swartz was the founder, owner and operator of Swartz Signs, Mifflintown. He also served as a sales representative for Mark Advertising, Lewistown.
Mel was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend to all who loved him. He enjoyed NASCAR, football and square dancing.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2015 from the Brown Funeral Homes, Inc., 100 Bridge St., Mifflintown with Pastor Casey Hostler and the Rev. Debra Ernst officiating. Interment will follow in the Academia Cemetery, Academia where full military burial honors will be accorded by the Juniata County Veterans Council.
Viewing will be 10 a.m. until the time of service, Tuesday at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorial donations in Mr. Swartz’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assoc., 3544 North Progress Ave., Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110.

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