William Austen Sweitzer

1939 - 2022

Beloved father & grandfather, affable neighbor, 'a true patriot' William (Bill) Austen Sweitzer of Richmondtown was called home to the Lord on April 6, 2022. He was 82 years young. Born in Brooklyn to William and Florence Sweitzer on May 29, 1939. Starting in his youth, Bill was industrious and hard-working. He served honorably in the U.S. Army and was a true patriot. His career took off while working at The Guardian Life Ins. Co. He worked his way up to the position of Building Superintendent. With his hands of gold, Bill could tackle any type of mechanical, plumbing or electrical issue. He loved his 1967 blue Chevy Nova and displayed a picture of it in his home even all these years later. He was fondly referred to as "The Mayor" or "Sarge" by friends and neighbors. He could be seen riding a bicycle well into his 70's, tending to his garden and on nice days, sitting at the back of his pickup truck (glass of Burgundy by his side) going through his mail and greeting neighbors. He had a soft spot for animals and was always prepared with treats for squirrels, cats even dogs being walked. To say Bill was charitable would be an understatement. He gave on a regular basis to dozens of good causes and charities. He was awarded a certificate for 17 years of "steadfast support" by the Board of Directors of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. He was very proud of his son Michael and cherished his grandson Harrison. Bill will be sorely missed and is survived by his only child, Michael Sweitzer (fiancee Stacey Lanza), grandson Harrison, former wife Lynn Lindtvedt, In-Laws Cheryl DiMatteo, Reynold Petersen and nephews Brandon and Nicholas DiMatteo. Wake will be at Hanley Funeral Home, 60 New Dorp Lane, Staten Island NY,on Friday, April 8, from 7-9 PM. Mass is at St. Patrick's Church in Richmondtown on Saturday, April 9, at 9:45 AM followed by interment at St. Mary's Cemetery in Staten Island.