9321 Memorial Park Road
West Palm Beach, Florida
SWARTZ, Bernard A. "Barney" 89, a retired transportation industry executive, died in West Palm Beach, Florida, September 12, 2012, after a long illness. Survived by his loving sons, Jerry (June Ann) and Mark (Ann-Marie), beloved granddaughter, Jennifer, devoted sister-in-law, Annabelle, and caring nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends. He was pre-deceased by his wife of 65 years, Gwenne (Sher), his parents, Louis and Annie Swartz, sisters, Bessie Sherman and Helen Stern, and brothers, Hyman and Harold ("Heshy"). The youngest of five children, Barney was born in Boston, graduated from Dorchester High School for Boys, and attended art school at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts on full scholarship. In WW II, Sgt. Swartz served in the 13th Army Air Force as an aircraft mechanic and instructor and as a flight engineer and gunner on a B-24 in the Pacific. Initially reported as MIA, he was one of only six survivors of an eleven-man crew after his B-24 suffered severe damage from enemy fire and was forced to crash land in the ocean. He was awarded the Purple Heart. After the War, Barney was married, had two sons, Jerry and Mark, and lived in Newton, MA. Employed in the automotive industry, Barney eventually became an executive in a major regional trucking company. Barney enjoyed his family, visiting relatives and friends and camping, fishing and boating in the New Hampshire Lakes Region. He was a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers, Hammett Lodge (Masons) and the Fleet Managers Association (past president). After he retired to Florida, Barney became an avid wood carver, applying his artistic talents to carving birds, ducks and other woodland creatures for family and friends. Barney was always known for his sense of humor, good nature, loyalty and sense of fairness. A private memorial service will be held. Those wishing to honor his memory are requested to contact the American Lung Association or the American Cancer Society.
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Dave and I extend our heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved Uncle Barnie. We are happy that we visited with him a few days before he passed. We will always remember him fondly.
Paula and Dave Landy
September 27, 2012
When I saw my Dad through the eyes of a child, he was my hero, -- brave, strong, smart, and capable, everything that I wanted to be. When eventually I was able to see him through the eyes of a mature adult, I realized that I was right. Love you, Dad.
Jerry Swartz
September 24, 2012
Mark Swartz
September 23, 2012
I remember with a smile Barney married to my cousin Gwennie when I was a young boy He was larger than life to a young kid
Arnie Sher
September 22, 2012
Gerald Swartz
September 22, 2012
We loved spending time with Uncle Barney and Aunt Gwen when we would visit Jason's parents in Florida. He was a great uncle and a very special man. We will miss him. Love, Ileene & Jason
ileene stern
September 22, 2012
Fond memories of Uncle Barney will remain forever. I will always hear his booming laugh! Love, Suzanne
Suzanne Swartz
September 22, 2012
Jerry Swartz
September 22, 2012
Jerry Swartz
September 22, 2012
A special Uncle who taught me much from when I was just a child great memories. Always in our thoughts
Leonard Swartz
September 22, 2012
I will always remember Uncle Barney for his loving teasing and his animated, "Suzie Q!"
- Suzie Q
Suzanne Artemieff
September 22, 2012
I remember vividly the Swartz family, including Barney, Heshy, Helen and "Ma" Swartz, as they were friends of my parents, Jack and Hannah Sinman. As a young child I can still remember how handsome Barney looked in his uniform and how special I felt after he had given me a big hug. May his blessed memory sustain the family for all time. My condolences to the family, friends, and all who loved him.
B'shalom.
Andora Sinman Kurzman
September 21, 2012
Dad, Thanks for all the wonderful memories. We will all miss you. Love, Mark
Mark Swartz
September 16, 2012
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Funeral services provided by:
IJ Morris at Star of David Cemetery of the Palm Beaches9321 Memorial Park Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33412
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