COAL GROVE — Carl Edward Swartzwelder, 54, of Coal Grove, passed away Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Huntington, W.Va.
Carl was born Oct. 6, 1954 at Ironton General Hospital and was a lifelong Lawrence County native. Carl graduated from Dawson- Bryant High School in 1972 and stayed active in the school system for many years. He was a member of the school board and served as treasurer for the athletic boosters and was president of the academic boosters. He officiating track meets and announced girls and boys basketball. Carl most enjoyed attending Hornet home football games where he would sound his red and black cannon after each Coal Grove score. He kept a very extensive video collection of Coal Grove athletics and produced highlight videos for many people over the years.
Carl worked at Ashland Oil for eight years before his motorcycle accident in 1981. He was an original member of Tri-City Cycle Club. Carl recently had the enjoyment of announcing for Rocky Top Raceway. Carl is survived by his parents, Kermit and Nancy Swartzwelder of Deering and a brother, Scott, also of Deering. Carl is also survived by his wife, of 30 years, Geni May Swartzwelder (Holmes) and a daughter, Heather Ann and grandson Sylas William, who always brought a smile to his face and filled his heart with joy and love like only a grandchild can. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews and many loving friends.
Funeral will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Tracy Brammer Funeral Home with Pastor Roger Pierce officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.