Charles Arthur Swinghammer Jr.

Obituary

Charles Arthur “Chuck” Swinghammer Jr.

January 19, 1945 – April 5, 2026
Charles Arthur “Chuck” Swinghammer Jr. passed away on April 5, 2026, at the age of 81.

Born on January 19, 1945, in Toledo, Ohio, Chuck carried his Midwestern roots with him throughout his life, eventually making his home in Dunedin, Florida. He was a steady, thoughtful presence—someone who valued knowledge, consistency, and the quiet rhythms of everyday life.

Chuck was a devoted husband to his wife, Helen Swinghammer, and a proud father to his sons, Jonathan Swinghammer and his wife Marissa of London, United Kingdom, and William Swinghammer and his wife Diana of Hilliard, Ohio. He took great joy in being a grandfather to Alexandra, Charlotte, Calvin, and Logan Swinghammer, and he followed their lives with interest and pride.

He built a long and dedicated career at Dana Corporation, where he worked for over 25 years before retiring. His work reflected the same qualities that defined him personally: reliability, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Chuck also served his country during the Vietnam War era, with deployment in Korea. His time in the military was an important chapter in his life and contributed to a lifelong interest in military history.

Outside of work, Chuck had a deep curiosity about the world. He was an avid reader of military history and had a lasting fascination with astronomy—drawn to both the events of the past and the vastness of the universe. These interests reflected a thoughtful and inquisitive mind, always looking to understand how things fit together, whether on Earth or beyond it.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Wittenberg University, an achievement that helped shape his early path and reflected his practical and analytical approach to life.

Chuck will be remembered for his steadiness, his intellect, and his quiet dedication to his family. He leaves behind those who knew him best and will carry his memory forward in their own lives.

Memorial service details will be shared at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Smithsonian Institution in his memory.

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April 13, 2026

Chuck was a welcome and welcoming presence in the Clydebank community, here in Dunedin Florida. We will miss him!!!

David Chiriboga

April 8, 2026

My cousin Chuck(Charlie, Charles) was my best buddie when I stayed at our Grandma Koester's Point Place home in the summer. We scrounged scrap lumber from Grampa and made a very rickity raft to play on on Ottawa River. He was a good person and my sympathies to everyone ....

Linda Younker