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Vija Swartzell Obituary

Vija S. Swartzell, 80, of Elkhart, passed away Friday, April 19, 2024, at Esther's House Center for Hospice in Elkhart. She was born Aug. 25, 1943, in Riga, Latvia, to Karlis and Zenta (Eglite) Kampars.

On Sept. 24, 2016, she married her partner of 25 years, Steven K. Swartzell, in Wisconsin. He survives along with her daughter, Danielle (Jeffrey) Oswald of Battle Creek, Michigan; two grandchildren, Martin Oswald of Battle Creek, Michigan, and Allison (Michael) Oswald-Bialecki of Springfield, Michigan; three siblings, John (Cathy) Kampars of Niles, Michigan, Aija (Howard) Blevins of Silver City, New Mexico, and Martin (Mary) Kampars of Jones, Michigan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Richard "Ricky" Karlis Picon.

Vija was a practicing Christian Scientist who spoke fluent Latvian and became a naturalized citizen on Dec. 14, 1961. She enjoyed dancing, gardening and was an avid dog lover. She and Steve enjoyed going to Wisconsin to the cabin fishing.

Vija worked at Himco in the office for 25 years, Instamatic in the office for many years and was the owner of REO Inc. in Union, Michigan. She and her mother at one time operated a seasonal flower stand in Union.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation will take place. Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home is entrusted with her care. Memorial contributions in memory of Vija may be given to the Cass County Humane Society.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Elkhart Truth on Apr. 22, 2024.

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2 Entries

Lissie Schell

April 23, 2024

I worked a few years at Himco with Vija. Always a joy to talk to and work with. She will be missed!

Terri Ganger

April 23, 2024

Steve, I am so sorry for your loss. You and Vija were always so sweet to me and she always treated me like we were old friends. My prayers are with you and the family.

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