FRANCIS SWINGE

1928 ~ 2010

Francis Swinge, age 82, died peacefully Thursday, Nov. 4th, at his home.

Chowchilla is the town where Francis was born in 1928 and where he happily chose to live the rest of his life. In 1953, he married his wife, Marjie, with whom he built a very loving home and a successful business. Francis and Marjie's son, Bruce, was added to their family in 1957.

Through the years Francis was actively involved with many civic organizations in Chowchilla such as the 20/30 Club, Eagles and most notably was a member of the Chowchilla Rotary Club for 50 years. Although not an official civic group, the morning coffee group at A and R Refrigeration for many years provided him community with friends and lots of entertainment daily.

At Farmers Hardware, which he owned and operated for over 50 years, he was known to many Chowchillians as the man with the answers. But most importantly, Francis will be remembered as a very kind, caring and honorable man who will be very missed.

He is survived by his wife, Marjie Zwinge of Chowchilla; son, Bruce Zwinge of Los Angeles, and many unofficially adopted daughters, sons, and grandchildren dear to his heart.

Services will be held at Worden's Chapel in Chowchilla on Friday, Nov. 12, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be sent to Hinds Hospice in Merced.