Bill Swank passes away

Bill Swank, age 88, passed September 21, 2019 in Westerville, Ohio, his home for 62 years.

He was born in western Ohio, Darke County to Ira and Pauline Swank. He is preceded in death by two brothers Wayne and Don, and his son Michael.

He is a U.S. Airforce veteran. Bill Received his bachelor of Science, Masters and Doctorate from The Ohio State University and remained a strong supporter of the university. He was recognized by the university in many areas, including the establishment of an endowed chair in Rural\Urban Policy. He was active nationally in the agricultural field and 28 of his 40 years with the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation were as Executive Vice President. He also served on numerous boards nationally and internationally. He received many awards and commendations for his work, too many to list specifically. In addition, he did extensive travel with the AID program to foreign and third world countries promoting new approaches to agriculture.

He is survived by his wife Helen of 68 years, two daughters, Theresa (Doug Webster) and Anita (Michael Dohn). In addition, he had 9 grandchildren (Nicole, Amanda, Mattew, Rebecca, Tracy, Natalia, Elizabeth, William and Elizabeth) and 10 great grandchildren whom he dearly loved.

Bill was an avid reader and participant in the economics, current events, and political happenings of the present and he enjoyed the company of many many friends. (He had a reputation as a storyteller.) He brought a positive attitude and good humor to all he engaged in, and enjoyed being with people immensely.

Family will receive people 10 to 11 AM, Saturday, September 28, 2019 at The Church of the Messiah, U.M., 51 N. State St., Westerville where services will be held at 11 AM Saturday.

Condolences may be sent to:
Mrs. Helen Swank
5800 Forest Hills Blvd, Apt. 109
Columbus, OH 43231-6916