John Curtis “Satch” Swartz went to Paradise on June 3, 2022. He was born on August 26, 1949 to Peter and Lily (neé Baum) Swartz. He was 72 years old.
He is survived by his three daughters- Jodi Grosvenor, Jessica Swartz, and Sarah Swartz (Joee Haugen), his grandchildren Tyler Grosvenor and Shelby Haugen, great grandson Gabriel Grosvenor, his brother Joe Swartz (Nancy), several nieces and nephews and many friends. He was preceded in death by his late parents, his sister Judy Potter (neé Swartz), his brother Bill Swartz, and his nephew Jim Potter. John grew up in Lemay, Missouri and attended St. Andrews and Hancock High School. He volunteered to join the US Army in 1968, going to boot camp at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and had his specialized individual training for truck mechanics at Fort Polk, Louisiana. After sustaining an injury, John was medically discharged from the military and returned home to Lemay. In 1971, John welcomed his first daughter, Jodi Dean and in 1973 married Esther Ratliff (neé Blankenship). Together they had Jessica Ann and Sarah Jane.
He was always extraordinarily proud of his girls and participated in many of their activities growing up. He was a heavily active lifetime member and board member of the St. Louis Area Veterans Consortium. For over 10 years, John helped organize the annual weekend long Vets Jam music events at Jefferson Barracks Park as well as provided his talents as MC. In the late 90’s he even hosted his own radio program on KDHX. Professionally John was a natural in sales, spending most of his career before his retirement at companies like Starbeam and The Maytag Store. John retired and moved back to Lemay in 2005.
John was a loving father and doted on his children, grandchildren, and great grandson; never forgetting to let anyone know how proud he was of them. He was a staunch patriot, always willing to help a fellow veteran or friend in need. He was a storyteller, loved corny jokes, and always answered questions with a funny quip or pun. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was deeply passionate about all types of music, especially the Blues. A lifelong fan, John loved the St. Louis Cardinals. He attending many games throughout his lifetime and could always be found either listening to games on the radio or watching them on TV any chance he could.
He was a loving and doting husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, son, loyal friend and father figure to so many. He will be greatly missed.
Services: Funeral at KUTIS SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd. on Monday, June 13, 11:30 a.m. Interment JB National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to (TBD) greatly appreciated. Visitation, Sunday 4-8 p.m.
So sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace.
My prayers are with you and your family.
So sorry for your loss Jodi. You were his angel and now he is yours.
Keeping you in my warmest thoughts as you navigate this difficult time — and wishing you hope and healing when you’re ready.
Jessica and Sarah along with family and friends of John. The Gartner family would like to send you healing prayers during this difficult time. Your dad was a great man and will be missed by many. He is rejoicing in Gods love now. Love you girls. And god bless
Dear Jessica & Sarah
(family & friends too)
My thoughts & prayers are with you for strength & healing your hearts.
I will always remember your Dad. He was introduced to me 37 years ago, “meet my Uncle John”, Jim said. It was at the New Years Eve party your family hosted way back in 1985? I think it was 1985.
I will specifically remember John’s smile and positive attitude. Later, his interest in the lives of his great nephews and our conversations on many topics. I will miss him at the Potter family gatherings. I have gratitude for the time I shared with him & the Swartz family.