Swope, William E. 1943-2024 St. Joseph, Mo.

By NewsPress Now

William “Bill” Edwin Swope, 81, of St. Joseph, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Aug. 29, 2024.

Bill was born in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, on May 1, 1943, and was a loving husband, father, brother, and friend, known for his generosity, humor, and commitment to his community.

Bill attended Williamsburg Technical School before proudly serving his country as a Navy veteran during the Vietnam War, spending six years aboard the USS Klondike. Following his military service, Bill embarked on a successful career as a plant manager with Silgan Containers and Carnation. It was during his time with Carnation that he traveled to the Philippines, where he met and fell in love with his beloved wife, Gerbie.

A devoted family man, Bill is survived by his loving wife, Gerbie Swope; his son, Kenny Swope; daughters, Mary Williams and Claire Swope; son-in-law, Sean Williams; and his brother, Robert Swope, along with his sister-in-law, Susan Swope.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Herman E. and Naomi Margaret Swope.

Bill had a generous spirit, raising money for United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) and volunteering with ProPapa Missions America. His strong sense of brotherhood was reflected in his involvement as a 32nd-degree Mason and a proud Moila Shriner. An avid outdoorsman, Bill loved hunting and fishing, especially in Hayward, Wisconsin.

Bill’s life of service, dedication, and love for his family and community will forever be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Farewell Services and Public Livestream 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. The family will gather with friends 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. prior to the service. Per Bill’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered at sea at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to United Cerebral Palsy, a cause close to Bill’s heart.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.