Claude Nagle Swindler passed away Saturday, August 31, 2013 at his home in Baker after a long struggle with emphysema. He was born in New Roads 90 years ago, the son of Patrick and Albertine Patin Swindler. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marie Crochet Swindler; and five children, Claudia Brian and husband, Malcolm; Linda Rizzo and husband, Rudy; Patrick Swindler and wife, Sharon; Penny Blount and husband, Ronell; and Rod Swindler. He is also survived by 13 grand-children, 19 great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, and two sisters and brothers-in-law, Janet and Eddie Callegan, and Barbara and Harold Robillard. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Michelle Rizzo, and his sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and J.C. Langlois. A United States Marine Corp veteran of WWII, he volunteered twice to serve in the Pacific Theater. He dedicated 47 years of his life to working with Barber Brothers Contractors, his only employer in his adult life. He was very civic minded, and in 1976 he won the Citizen of the Year Award from the Baker Interclub Council, and in 1986, the Outstanding Citizen of Baker. He was also very active in St. Isidore Catholic Church. He served on committees and councils as needed and chaired the church fair for many, many years. His favorite charity was St. Vincent de Paul, and he volunteered at the church council and eventually served as President. Until he could no longer drive due to Macular Degeneration, he would happily fill the food boxes and make home deliveries to the poor from the food pantry. Claude was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4085, serving as Grand Knight for two years, and was also the Deputy Grand Knight for the Baton Rouge Area. He won numerous Knights of the Year and Family of the Year awards. The family would like to thank the sitters, Robyn Green, Trina Shropshire, and Latrice Landry, who took such loving care of both Claude and Marie. Also, thanks to hospice aide, Lorraine, and nurses, Leah & David who guided us through this process. Visitation will be at Baker Funeral Home, 6401 Groom Road, Baker, on Tuesday, September 3, from 4:00-8:00pm. Visiting will resume at St. Isidore Catholic Church, 5657 Thomas Road, Baton Rouge, on Wednesday, September 4, from 9am until Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am, celebrated by Revs. Michael Maroney and Frank Bass. Interment to follow in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, Baker. In lieu of flowers, donations to the following charities would be appreciated or chose one of your favorites: the St. Isidore Council of St. Vincent de Paul, the American Lung Association, or Foundation Fighting Blindness. You may sign the guest register at www.bakerfuneralhomeonline.com.
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6 Entries
On behalf of the Leadership Council and Staff of the American Lung Association (ALA) please accept our deepest sympathy on your loss. We appreciate your remembering the ALA with memorials in Mr. Claude N. Swindler's honor. Please know that any donations further our mission to eradicate lung disease.
American Lung Association
September 3, 2013
Here's an example of a life well lived. Sending love and prayers to the family who was blessed to have such a wonderful dad, and to the faithful wife that devoted her time to her husband, family and friends. Love to each of you, Charles and Gail Templeton
Gail Templeton
September 2, 2013
Brooke,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Liz
Elizabeth Downey
September 1, 2013
We are very sorry for the loss of one of your family members. We all know that he is in a better place, and he is no longer suffering any longer. We know he is heaven and looking down to his family and still taking care of you. If any of you need us, call and we will be there.
Pam and Bobby Sanders
September 1, 2013
Sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. Your family will be in my prayers.
Matthew Hurley
September 1, 2013
Thinking of you and your family during these difficult days...God Bless all of you
Clint & Annie Webb
September 1, 2013
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