Howard D. Swango Obit Photo

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Howard D. Swango
Date Of Birth:November 6, 1953
Date Of Death:December 14, 2011
Service Date:2:00 p.m. Saturday
Dec. 17, 2011
Allen Funeral Home

Howard Dale Swango, 58, of Bloomington, IN went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, December 14, 2011, after dying peacefully in his sleep at his home. Howard is survived by his wife of 27 years, Marietta (Inskeep) Swango of Bloomington, IN; his two children, Kelli (Matt) Jacobs of Bentonville, AR, and son Paul Swango of Bloomington, IN; his parents, Lloyd and Joyce Swango of Bloomington, IN;  sister-in-law and brother-in-law(known as Mamaw and Papaw by Howard and Marietta's children), Carol (Inskeep) and Larry Abraham of Bloomington, Indiana ; sisters Sara Swango of Bedford, IN, Beth Swango of Bloomington, IN and Linnie (Luke) Howard of West Fork, AR, and brother Brent Swango of Bloomington, IN; nephews Michael Dockery of Plainfield, IN, Patrick Swango of Dearborn, MI, Logan Swango of Bloomington, IN, Toby Finley of Bloomington, IN and Brent Lloyd Howard Swango of Paoli, Indiana.

 Howard loved Jesus Christ the Lord and was gifted with a beautiful singing voice which he used to lead the congregational singing at Bridge Church of Christ, Unionville, IN, where enjoyed Bible study, fellowship and attended regularly for many years (he was a member of North Central Church of Christ and enjoyed fellowship there also). He loved to sing and share his faith and was frequently asked to sing for wedding and funeral ceremonies. A guest at his home would, more than likely, become a part of a songfest after Howard picked up his guitar and Marietta distributed the hymnals…Glory Hallelujah! Howard was a cherished husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. He was a devoted father who, along with Marietta, provided thoughtful, interactive time to rear their children, which resulted in two magnificent adult children.  Howard's warm, gentle manner, humor and wise counsel will be greatly missed by those who had the privilege of knowing him.  Howard was employed at Indiana University in the School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA). He was formerly employed as a sheet-metal worker and was a member of the Monroe County Farm Bureau.

 Howard's family would like to sincerely convey their heartfelt gratitude to their friends and family for the overwhelming expressions of sympathy and support.  Friends may call at Allen Funeral Home 4155 S. Old St. Rd. 37 in Bloomington from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. SaturdayDec.17th. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 2:00 p.m. Saturday followed by burial at Carmichael Cemetery in Greene County; IN.
Memorial donations may be made to charity of one's choice. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.allenfuneralhome.org.


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  • From: Tim & Shermagne Livingston

    Tim and I will miss knowing Howard is not at his house. Waiting to greet you and always welcome you in. He was the Best Man at our wedding. He always had a smile ,a good story,and a great laugh. He is walking and talking with the Lord Thy God. May his family find peace and comfort.


  • From: Kathy Haney
    Location:Bloomington

    Words cannot express the amount of loss his SPEA family is feeling. We miss wishing him good morning as we come pass the print shop and I personally miss giving him a hard time about something as he dropped off the morning paper. Howard touched all of our lives every day and SPEA will never be the same. My thoughts and prayers are with you.


  • From: Marsha Marker
    Location:Bloomington, Kelly Business School , BSS office

    Please accept my sincere and heartfelt condolences at this most difficult time. Howard was a remarkable man and everyone here at the Kelley School of Business are blessed to have known him. For those of us that knew Howard, we knew him to be kind, honest and a man of great honor and strength. It was always a joy to see him and his uplifted spirit. He will be greatly missed and we all are saddened by his passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.


  • From: Danny Sperling
    Location:Bloomington In

    Marietta and children i would like to say i am so sorry about Howards passing he will be missed by many i worked with Howard since he started in the SPEA mailroom i talked with Howard everyday he was so nice of a person he liked everyone and was such a gentleman my prayers and thoughts are with all of you now Howard has moved in with our Lord may God bless him and all of you. Danny Sperling


  • From: Crys Trotter
    Location:Downs, Il 61736

    We are deeply saddened by the shock of the news, of Howard's passing! He was such a terrific man. Mr. Personality! We loved him, as I know many people will tell you, how much they also loved him. He certainly was Blassed with his Singing Talent, and Story Telling! Our hearts bleed for you all! Sending our deepest of Sympathy, prayers and love! XOXOXOXO Wayne and Crys (Mabbitt) Trotter


  • From: Billie Moore
    Location:Bloomington

    H.D. sang at our wedding, he filled my heart with joy that day and many times there after. I will miss him dearly. Howard was one of the kindest, smartest, humble, strong and humorous men that I have ever met, it was in his genes. I remember the first time I heard him recite Casey at the Bat it will always be a precious memory to me. Howard left a wonderful impression I am blessed to have known him and his wonderful family. Which I may add made me feel like I am one of for all of my life. There are no words that will make the pain better, perhaps only a few that will wrap around the loved ones like warm loving arms, to bring some bit of comfort. Know how much we all loved H.D., Howard, Uncle Howard.


  • From: William Resh
    Location:Bloomington, IN

    I am new to Bloomington. So, I only knew Howard for a short time (since August). But, I found him to be among the most welcoming individuals I have met here. He was a kind man. I wish his family my sincere condolences. I know that he will be missed. I am glad I had at least a brief time to know him. Sincerely, Bill Resh


  • From: Kurt  Zorn

    Marietta, Paul, and Kelli, Words cannot express the sadness I feel with the death of your husband and father. I was stunned by the news when it appeared in my email inbox Thursday morning and it continues to be surreal. I can only imagine the grief you are experiencing and hope, in some little way, that my words are comforting. As I look back on the things I have contributed to SPEA, I take special pride in the fact that Howard was hired while I was Associate Dean. He was universally liked throughout the building, bringing levity and cheerfulness to everyone who came in contact with him. I especially enjoyed his sense of humor and will remember fondly the many exchanges we had over the years. He was a special person -- gentle and kind and truly nice. And it was evident to me how much he cherished you all -- Paul, Kelli, and Marietta. SPEA will not quite be the same without Howard. I will miss him dearly! Kurt Zorn


  • From: Ronald Drahos
    Location:I.U.

    May the memories of all the good times you and Howard shared, support and sustain you during this tragic loss and during the days ahead. I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. May God's peace be with you and your family during this time and throughout your days ahead.


  • From: Matt Auer

    Dear Marietta, Howard's sudden passing leaves a major void at SPEA. Howard had bottomless positive energy and a perpetual twinkle in his eye. How I will miss him and how lucky I was to know him. Condolences to the entire Swango family. Sincerely, Matt Auer


  • From: Donna Pritchett
    Location:SPEA

    Marietta, Paul, Kelly and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Howard was an exceptional person and his shoes can never be filled here at SPEA. He was so proud of his family. He shared wonderful stories of you with us here at work. No one loved their family more than Howard did. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless, Donna Pritchett


  • From: Tom Wetzel
    Location:Florida

    I was so sorry to learn of Howard's passing. I enjoyed the time I spent with him talking about many things and enjoying his company. He was especially helpful to me when I had the accident and couldn't get around very well and I will always appreciate his kindnesses to me. He always brought a bright smile and a cheery word. He was a good fellow and he will be missed.


  • From: Anita Freeman
    Location:Bloomington

    Heaven has welcomed the kindest, funniest man I was so fortunate to know. Marietta, Kelli and Paul....I love you all sooo much, I have no words to express how saddened I am for this huge loss. Howard loved you guys so much, his family meant the world to him, it was very obvious in everything he did. I have never met anyone who represented "Family Man" more than Howard did. Spending time at the Swango house was ALWAYS a fun time, Marietta in the kitchen making the most delish snacks, Howard laughing, or making the rest of us laugh and the kids running around having a good time. And how can I forget Paul beating us at Skit-bo!! I will always treasure those memories. My family extends to you our heartfelt sympathies. Anita Freeman


  • From: Jim Palmer

    I'm extremely sorry to learn of Howard's passing. He was a truly fine gentleman. My sympathy to the family.


  • From: Luke Jackson
    Location:Huntington Indiana

    Rachel and I would like to send our love to the family at this time. It's been many years since I've seen Howard. I do remember his kind hearted nature and smile and love for the Lord. May God be with you all during this time and grant you His abounding peace.


  • From: Kellie McGiverin-Bohan
    Location:SPEA

    Howard will always be the bee's knees. I will miss seeing his smiling face in SPEA. I remember more than a few times when a smile and greeting from him went a long way in turning around a bad day. He is such a happy soul. I am very sorry for Howard's friends and family for their loss. I can't imagine how hard it must be to miss such a wonderful gentleman.


  • From: Mercede Moore
    Location:Vicenza, Italy

    Howard was an amazing man. Everytime I saw him I was greeted with a huge smile and bear hug, and when I think of him, I will always think of his smiling face, which in turn causes me to smile because there was no way to be around him without feeling joy and sharing in his good humor and happiness. Howard will be greatly missed but will live on in his children. Marietta, Paul, and Kelli, I am so sorry for your loss and I am thinking and praying for you always. I love you!


  • From: Susan Sandberg
    Location:IU/Bloomington SPEA

    What a shocking and sad loss to Howard's SPEA family, friends, and loved ones! We have lost a gentle spirit and an uplifting man. It was such a pleasure to run into Howard on his appointed rounds at SPEA, and his will be sadly missed. My very best wishes and heartfelt prayers go out to Howard's family in this most difficult time.


  • From: Eulah Jans
    Location:Ellettsville IN

    Kelli and family; My heart goes out to you in these trying times. I will keep you in my prayers. Eulah


  • From: Mike and Lana Allen
    Location:Glendale, AZ.

    Our condolences to the Swango family. Beth and Linnie, so sorry for the passing of your big brother. It's been many years since i've seen Howard, but i remember him just as the picture shows...with a smile on his face. You all are in our prayers. God Bless, Mike


  • From: Edwardo Rhodes
    Location:SPEA

    Marrieta, Howard was what I call a Happy Warrior. He brought smiles and good cheer even when things looked gray and not so cheerful. His positive attitude was always a bright spot in the day. I will miss him and his wonderful spirit. My deepest condolences and best wishes to you and your family.


  • From: Rob McConnell
    Location:Bloomington, In.

    My heart dropped with sadness when I heard the news of Howard. I never realized the positive impact that he had on my life. Howard was always smiling and joyful when I would see him. I remember the bib overalls, very much of a comedian and lifelong friend. I recall when I was a small boy, my mom took me to see Howard in a play that he was in at Smithville School. I believe it was "South Pacific" or something like that and he had a part where he hula danced. I have always and always will remember that. I laughed so hard. Memories, sweet, sweet memories....peace and comfort to the family, with much love, Rob McConnell


  • From: Marlene Gillen
    Location:IU Bloomington

    The sadness of Howard's sudden passing is felt tremendously by his SPEA family. I still expect him to come through our office door with his big smile and cheery greeting -something we all looked forward to every morning and afternoon. It was a pleasure to know Howard and fun to be in his company. As one of his "lunch bunch" friends, we shared many laughs and happy moments. Now there is an empty chair at our table in the SPEA staff lounge. He is loved and missed. To Marietta and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you.


  • From: Sherry Bland
    Location:Bloomington

    Rest in peace Howard. May God bless your family.


  • From: Becky Snedegar
    Location:Bloomington

    Marietta, Paul, Kelli and Matt: I was so shocked and saddened on Wednesday morning to hear of Howard's passing. He was such a kind and encouraging person. We all enjoyed hearing him sing when we could coax him to do so here at work. You all were everything to him, he loved you all so. I am sure he is singing in a Heavenly choir now. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family.


  • From: Rebecca N
    Location:Bloomington, IN

    Howard was one of the most genuine people I have met in Bloomington. His smiling face always made me feel better about teaching my 8AM class. I will miss him a lot. I am so sorry for your loss.


  • From: Don and Sue Conder
    Location:Cory Indiana

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Howard was a very likeable guy. He always had a smile. Remember the good memories and he will always be in your heart. Don and Sue


  • From: Stephanie Lewis
    Location:SPEA

    Howard is in Heaven now, and I rejoice in that. We spoke of "going home" often and what a glorious day that would be. You are each in my prayers. Paul - please remember to come by and visit.


  • From: Jim  Bays
    Location:Indiana University, Bloomington

    Marietta, Paul, and Kelly words can't adequately express the sadness that I feel for you and your larger family. We have all lost a good man, but you have lost even more. Howard helped me in many ways through his insight and wisdom. I will always remember him as the warm, kind, and reliable man that he was. There were times that I could've talked with him all day. I will miss him a great deal. Be strong in your love for each other.


  • From: Debbie Sparks

    So sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. We have many fond memorys of times we spent together.all of you have been an important part of our early lifes. Thanks so much. Debbie Sparks, Randy Todd, Gary Todd,Peggy Hayes , Jim Todd, Jody Todd


  • From: Claire & Jim Schaffer

    We are shocked and saddened to learn of Howard's passing. We are praying for all of Howard's loved ones that they might find the peace that passes understanding. We remember Howard as a joy-filled man. It was a pleaure to have known him. With respect, Jim & Claire Schaffer


  • From: Danny Todd
    Location:Bloomfield

    I'm sorry I won't be able to attend the service [my loss]but feel blessed to know Howard and most of his family.Had not seen him alot since the 60's/70's but it was always memorable when I did,most recently was at Bruce Moore's service[another old friend of all of ours]I had forgotten his Casey at Bat performance.Awesome!I can here him now.I need to see if he ever you tubed it.It's great to know he was even closer to Christ later in life [Wisdom!!!]than he was in the good ole days.When the roll is called up yonder we'll be there and maybe here mighty casey strike out one more time!


  • From: Neal Buckwalter
    Location:Bloomington, IN

    Dear Marietta, Paul, and Kelli, Your husband and father was among the kindest souls I have ever met. I count myself very blessed to have known him over these past several years. I learned so much from him, about things that really matter, especially faith and family. His love for you was deeply strengthened by his love of God. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We loved Howard, and we love you. Sincerely, Neal and Lynnette Buckwalter and family.


  • From: Deborah Vaughn Webster
    Location:Ocala, FL

    I remember Howard fondly from Smithville. What a great personality! (Sara and I graduated together). Soon and very soon we will all see Howward again. Blessing to the family.


  • From: Mark Parker
    Location:Bloomington

    I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I just found out this morning, I wish i would have known, i would have been there. Howard was always good to me, as was Beth. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go thru this difficult time.


  • From: Edwardo Rhodes
    Location:SPEA

    Howard was someone I called a "Happy Warrior." He had such a positive and bright personality, that he brought smiles and good feelings to an otherwise gray day. Always ready to help and always seeing the positive side of things. He was a great member of the SPEA family. I will miss him and his wonderful attitude. My deepest condolences to Marietta and the rest of the family.


  • From: Trent and Kimberly Engbers
    Location:Bloomington

    Marietta, Paul, Kelly and Family, We were saddened and shocked by Howard's sudden passing. Over the past several years, Howard has always been a good friend and a mentor on how to be a good father. Our daughters loved to come to SPEA and were always entertained by Howard's joyful spirit. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.


  • From: Christopher Hunt
    Location:IU-SPEA

    Most days at SPEA I went outside for a cigarette and most times Howard accompanied me... over the past five years since I came to IU he had become my main friend here, gently, unassertively, always kind, always patient (and selflessly helpful in the print shop where I so often needed his aid)... and an endless source of local history and American lore for me as a foreigner. In all this time I never knew his family-name, so paid no heed at the announcement of his death (another faculty member I thought that I haven't met). The discovery that my friend was Howard Swango and that he was gone hit hard. It will go on that way I think for as long, at least, as I am here. a beloved friend


  • From: Alfredo Minetti
    Location:New York

    Howard was to me this big walking heart: cheerful, life-loving, with a contagious positive attitude...had a sunshine personality...I just heard of his passing and am still in disbelief...I wish that his family finds peace and solace in each other, as this is devastating. He was absolutely wonderful and will be dearly missed!!


  • From: Lanny Stephens
    Location:Bloomington

    Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole family. So sorry for your loss. May God be with you all.