MERLE E. SWIFT

 

Merle E. Swift, 85, of North East died peacefully at his home, Wednesday, May 15, 2024.  Merle was born November 3, 1938, in North East, PA, a son of the late Frederick Layton and Mabel (LeSeur) Swift. 

A graduate of North East High School, Merle quickly entered the automotive industry, getting his start at Mackay Swift Dodge in North East, which he owned with his father.  Through his love of cars, Merle owned and operated several automobile dealerships throughout the area including Warren, Meadville, and his most recent, Mill and Main in North East.  Merle successfully owned and operated the Corry Auto Dealers Exchange for 35 years.  In addition, he successfully developed Paper Mill Hollow Estates in North East.  Merle was a member of Shriners International, the Erie Yacht Club, Lake View Country Club, and an overall supporter of his North East Community.  Merle enjoyed spending time in his Carriage House admiring his collection of antique pedal cars, gas pumps, and additional "treasures”. 

Merle married Roberta Ann Buerkle on March 18, 1994, in Florida.  Together he and Bobbi enjoyed traveling, along with spending time in their motorcoach at RiverBend Resort and their winter home in Florida.  There were many fun times and laughs with family and friends.  

In addition to his parents, Merle was preceded in death by his son, Tim Swift. 

Merle is survived by his wife Bobbi; son Tad Swift of Erie; stepson Tim (Bonnie) Reynolds of Warren; stepson Michael Reynolds of Virginia; stepdaughter Lauri Shattuck of Virginia; grandchildren Scott, Kristie, Jade, Scarlett, and Shantell; and great-grandchildren McKenna, Bella, Mason, and Ellie.  Merle is further survived by his brother Wayne (Linda) Swift of Florida; sister Lynda (Bob) Semelka of North East; and several nieces and nephews, including Cortenay Semelka with whom he was close.  In addition, Merle is survived by close friends Brian Canella and Anita Kuchcinski; and the mother of his sons, Sharon Swift. 

The family is grateful for the many people who assisted in Merle’s care the last two months – Hamot, Select Specialty, Community Nurses of North East, Home Instead, Sunrise In-Home Care, and Colleen Doyle. 

A private ceremony and celebration of Merle will be held by the family at their convenience.  Funeral arrangements are under the care of the W. Tad Bowers Funeral Home, 92 S. Lake St., North East, PA.  To send condolences, please visit www.bowersfuneralhome.com.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider memorial donations to the Community Nurses of North East, 7 Park Street, North East, PA 16428; Shriners Children’s of Erie, 1645 W 8th Street, Erie, PA 16505; Park United Methodist Church, 30 N Lake Street, North East, PA 16428; or a charity of one’s choice.