Robert Swaby

Robert Thomas Swaby  

April 26, 1943-January 25, 2024

Robert Thomas Swaby, 80, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away Thursday, January 25, 2024 at Hamilton Grove Communities in New Carlisle, IN.

He was born April 26, 1943 in Sullivan, IN, the son of Orval and Laura (Ladson) Swaby.

Robert graduated from Sullivan High School and then served in the United States Air Force and Indiana Air National Reserves. After moving to La Porte in 1961, he became a proud member of the La Porte City Firefighters, serving mostly at Station 3 on Boyd, and working his way up to Captain, retiring in 2002. In addition to his work, he had many hobbies. Robert raised Beagles and delivered them to many people in this community. He loved to fish and enjoyed woodworking.  Robert was also an avid Cubs fan. Always a firefighter, after retirement, he would sit for hours listening to his scanner so he could keep up with firefighting efforts in the city.  He also developed a great love for his wonderful grandchildren, who will miss him dearly.

Robert is survived by his daughters, Monica (Wesley) Coulter of Westville, IN, Dawn (Michael) Williams of Apple Valley, MN and Dianna (Andrew) Francis of Easley, South Carolina; brother, Bill Swaby; sister, Carolyn (Perry) Ausman; grandchildren, Zachary (Emily) Williams, Sharon (Ryan) Morrow, Jessica (Jordan) Owen, Justin (Jordan) Francis, Luke Ashcraft and Austin (Kahlyn) Ashcraft; great-grandchildren, Forrie and River Owen, Parker and Finn Ashcraft, and Mikko and Mailena Williams.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Lois Wehmier, Irene French, Doris Enochs, Judy Kenworthy and Betty Sullivan. 

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., La Porte, IN where the family will receive friends on Saturday February 3, 2024 from 10:00 to 12:00 noon. A funeral service will follow at noon on the 3rd with interment to follow in Salem Heights Cemetery. Military honors will be rendered.

Memorial contributions may be made in Robert's name to the City of La Porte Fire Department, 809 W. 18th Street, La Porte, IN 46350.

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.