Charles J. Swick

Charles J. Swick went to be with the Lord peacefully on September 6, 2021, at his home surrounded by his loving family.  One of the most humble, kind, charming, honorable, and loving men is now in a better place after living a storybook-like life as the epitome of what it is to be a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, coach, partner, counselor, mentor, and friend.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Joan, his four children: Michael (Carla) Swick of Meadville, John (Nicole) Swick of Conneaut Lake, Maureen Swick Kurz of Pittsford, NY, and Patrick (Lisa) Swick of Erie; his 10 grandchildren: Ryan (Raela), Sean, Michael, Jack, Logan, Connor Kurz, Anna Kurz, Collin, Addyson, and Jase; and seven step-grandchildren and great grandchildren: Nikki, Lindsey, Alisa, Cameo, Luke, Brooks, and Remington.  Chuck was a devoted family man who, throughout his life, always found time for his grandchildren – who will dearly miss their ‘Poppy’.

Chuck “Chick” was born on November 25, 1938, in Pittsburgh, PA as the only son of Charles R. and Rita C. Swick.  After excelling both athletically and academically at St. Justin’s High School, Chuck accepted an academic scholarship to St. Francis College in Loretto, PA.  Chuck was a two-sport athlete, starring in both basketball and baseball, with the highlight of his career having played in the National Invitational Basketball Tournament (NIT) in Madison Square Garden (pre-NCAA tournament days).

Above all his collegiate accomplishments, Chuck has always said that the best thing that ever happened to him in college was meeting the love of his life, Joan.  This began a 60 plus year love affair that has, through its strength, love and endurance, positively affected all who had the good fortune to come into their lives.

After graduating from St. Francis, Chuck attended Duquesne Law School where he earned his Juris Doctor degree.  In 1964, Chuck and Joan moved to Meadville, PA where Chuck became a founding partner of what is now the Shafer Law Firm, the oldest law firm in Crawford County’s history.  Chuck’s 50+ years legal career was the embodiment of an ethical, Christian-based attorney – something that is challenging in an adversarial profession such as the law.  He is probably best known for closing more real estate transactions than any other attorney in Crawford County’s history!  He was widely respected in his profession and served as a mentor, counselor, and friend to many.

To frame Chuck’s life in terms of his chosen profession, however, doesn’t begin to capture the impact of his life in Meadville.  Chuck has been a faithful member of the Meadville Catholic community for over 55 years, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and church volunteer, being an Engagement & Marriage Encounter counselor, and hosting Allegheny College students through the church.  Perhaps most unique and impactful, however, were Chuck and Joan’s efforts in welcoming each new parish priest by befriending them and welcoming them into their home.

Chuck’s love for basketball hardly ended when he left St. Francis.  Upon settling in Meadville, Chuck’s initial basketball exploits were as a player with the Vic Kress Specialist and starring in the annual lawyers vs. state police games.  He moved naturally into coaching given his acumen, temperament, and ability to be a positive role model.  The coaching path Chuck followed over the next 40 years is amazing in its diversity, impact, and success: Meadville Christian High School, Allegheny College, Seton School, Meadville High School Girls, Meadville High School Boys, and Saegertown High School.  Chuck’s accomplishments culminated with his induction into the Crawford County Sports Hall of Fame in 2007.

Somehow, in addition to all his other efforts, Chuck found time to be an avid golfer regularly carrying a single digit handicap over his 50+ years as a member of the Meadville County Club.  Chuck and Joan enjoyed winter trips together to Destin, FL and, for 50 years, made their annual summer trip to the Jersey Shore to spend time with their entire family and friends.

Over his life, Chuck provided countless pro-bono legal services and contributed to many local charities and service groups as a board member and supporter including Women’s Services, Habitat for Humanity, CASA, and the Meadville Housing Corporation.  His service and charitable endeavors along with his coaching efforts were recognized in 2011 by receiving the Governor Raymond P. Shafer Award given annually to the person who, through their lifetime of service and charitable efforts, has positively contributed to improving Crawford County.  The award was especially gratifying in that Chuck was a friend of the Governor and he co-founded the firm that bears his name.

To say Chuck’s friends and family will miss him doesn’t begin to grasp the impact this man had on so many lives.  Our worlds are a bit darker and sadder today from losing him, but we are comforted by knowing – with the utmost certainty – that if there is an express lane to heaven and a life with the Lord, Chuck is on it waiting to brighten everyone’s day with his heartwarming smile and endless love.

Calling hours will be Thursday, September 9th from 4-7 p.m. at the ROBERT W. WAID FUNERAL HOME, 581 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE with a Scripture Prayer service at 7:00 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, September 10th at 12:00 p.m. at St. Brigid Church, 383 Arch St., Meadville with Fr. Jeffrey Lucas as Celebrant.

Interment will be in St. Brigid Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Brigid Church, c/o The Epiphany of The Lord Parish, 353 Pine St., Meadville, PA 16335 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.waidfuneralhome.net