AKRON – Ricci D. Swihart, 53, Gilead, passed away unexpectedly at 12:24 p.m. July 31, 2015, at Woodlawn Hospital Emergency Room. He was born Dec. 23, 1961, in Wabash, to Jack E. and C. Anne Rhodes Swihart. On Oct. 5, 1995, in Gilead, he married Patti Nette, who survives. He had worked at Gulf Stream Coach, Nappanee; Monaco RV of Elkhart and O & R Builders of Akron. He was a 1980 graduate of North Miami High School. He was in the U.S. Navy and served his country for six years. He enjoyed camping, watching races, tractor pulls and fishing. Also surviving are: his son, Kevin (and spouse Amber) Swihart, Monticello; his father, Jack Swihart, Gilead; a granddaughter, Chamberlain Swihart, Monticello; a sister, Kim (and spouse Dave) Yoder, Mexico, Ind.; two brothers, Stuart (and spouse Cindy) Swihart, Goshen; and Brett (and spouse Julie) Swihart, Bourbon. He was preceded in death by his mother, C. Anne Swihart, in 2009, and a brother, Kelby Swihart, in 1997. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305, W. Rochester St., Akron, with Pastor Jason See officiating. Burial is in Gilead Cemetery where miliary rites will be performed. Calling is from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. ***** Memorials to Miami County Animal Shelter 2202 W. Eel River Road Peru, IN 46970. Condolences via www.hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
