Lawrence K. Swartz, 83, of Flagler Beach, Florida, passed away Sunday, October 14, 2012 at his home in Rensselaer. Lawrence was born in Seafield, Indiana on January 26, 1929 to Everett Swartz, Sr. and Jessie Dolfin. He attended the area schools and graduated from Wolcott High School with the Class of 1947. On January 15, 1982, he married Theda Ratliff who survives.

Lawrence served in the Army during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany. He was Chief of the Rensselaer Volunteer Fire Dept. for 20 years. He retired from the City of Rensselaer after serving 13 years as Superintendent of Streets, Sanitation, Water and Sewage Departments. He was also employed at the Johnny Rusk Dodge dealership for 27 years.

Lawrence was a life member of VFW Post 1279 where he served as Commander several times. He was also a 49-year member of the American Legion Post 0294 in Wolcott. He was Past President of the Indiana Volunteer Firemen’s Association.

Surviving is his wife Theda and two sons, Robert (Ronelle) Peck and Randy (Debbie) Peck, both of Rensselaer; 4 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents, 1 brother, Everett Swartz, Jr., and 2 sisters, Alberta Swartz and Delores Stearns.

A private family service was held and a Celebration of Life Gathering will be held Sunday, October 28, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at VFW Post 1279 at 315 E. Maple Street in Rensselaer.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Lawrence’s name be made to the Hoosier Burn Camp, P.O. Box 233, Battleground, IN 47920.

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