Burdette Sweny

Family-Placed Obituary


SWENY, Burdette Hastings Mr. Sweny, 82, passed away on Christmas Day 2007 in Cape Coral, Fla. He joins his beloved wife of almost 60 years, Margaret (deceased May 25, 2007). Born February 1, 1925, in Lebanon, Ohio, he was the only child of the late Harold and May Sweny. A long time resident of Summit St. in Lebanon, Ohio, he was a 1943 graduate of Lebanon High School where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Margaret Witham. On October 17, 1943 he entered the Air Force where he was awarded the Air Medal for his work as a top B-17 turret gunner. Mr. Sweny served overseas before being discharged in Decemember, 1945. After returning home he spent his career in the food brokerage business as a salesman, restaurant owner and manager, and entrepreneur. His many interests included stock car racing, organ club, RV traveling, and aviation. By his friends and family he will be well remembered for his sense of humor and readiness with a joke for any situation. Mr. Sweny was a 60 year member of the Lebanon Mason Lodge. Mr. Sweny is survived by his four children: sons, Michael Burdette Sweny (Ellen) of Cape Coral, Fla., Patrick Witham Sweny (Debi) of Pompano Beach, Fla; daughters, Vikki Rankin (David) of Charlotte, N.C., Terry Lee O'Mara (RJ) of St Petersburg, Fla.; sisters in-law, Mary and Martha Witham, both of Lebanon/Otterbein; grandchildren, Erin Rankin, Kyle and Kevin Sweny; and other relatives and friends. A private memorial service will be held later in 2008. Memorial donations may be made to Lebanon United Methodist Church or Warren County Meals on Wheels.