Robert A. Swisher
ESCANABA — Robert A. Swisher, 74, of Escanaba, passed away early Monday morning, May 20, 2019, at Christian Park Healthcare Center in Escanaba, surrounded by family. He was born on May 24, 1944, in Newberry, Mich., the son of Richard and Evelyn (Laverty) Swisher. Robert was raised and attended school in Curtis, Mich. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country honorably for three years. After returning home, he worked in the woods for a few years. Robert married the former Delores “Dee” McAlpine on May 21, 1966, in Curtis and she preceded him in death on Aug. 17, 2006. Together, the couple shared 40 years of marriage and raised three children. He was employed for Harnischfeger Corporation in Escanaba as a welder until their closure in 1982. Robert went on to work at Bridgewood Central in Escanaba until his retirement. After retirement, Robert was able to watch and take care of his grandchildren. Robert married the former Kristina Deiter on June 30, 2013, and together shared many wonderful years together. He enjoyed woodworking, the outdoors — especially hunting and fishing, and was an avid Green Bay Packer and Detroit Tigers fan. He found joy in gardening, cooking, people watching, listening to old country music, and dancing. Family meant the world to Robert and loved spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Robert was a member of Christ the King Lutheran Church.
Robert A. Swisher is survived by his wife, Kristina Swisher of Escanaba; children, Robert (Yvonne) Swisher of Newport News, Va., Richard (Brittany) Swisher of Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., and Veronica Swisher (Bill Waddingham) of Escanaba; 11 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; three stepchildren, Sarah Deiter, Roger Deiter, and Rebecca (Brian) Van Hese; six step-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Ronald Swisher of Curtis, Mich., and Gary (Sue) Swisher of Sault Ste Marie, Mich.; three sisters, Larrena (Jerry) Rushlow of Saline, Mich., Judy Anderson of Florida, and Connie Swisher of Curtis, Mich.; as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and first wife, Robert was preceded in death by his daughter, Regina Sue Swisher; and one brother, Rickey Swisher.
Visitation will be held from 12 to 2 p.m. Friday, May 24, at the Anderson Funeral in Escanaba. Funeral services celebrating the life of Robert will follow at 2 p.m. Friday in the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Terry Frankenstein officiating. Military honors and graveside services will immediately follow the funeral services at Gardens of Rest Cemetery. A luncheon will be served at the conclusion of the services at Christ the King Lutheran Church in their fellowship hall. The Anderson Funeral Homes are assisting the Swisher family and online condolences can be sent at www.andersonfuneralhomes.net.