James Swartz

James R. “Jimmy” Swartz, passed away Monday, July 17, 2017 in Corpus Christi, Texas at the age of 93. He was born September 19, 1923 in Mission, Texas to Guy and Kathryn Swartz. He graduated from Corpus Christi High School. He served in the Army Air Corp during World War II. Upon his return from the service he was employed by Southern Community Gas Co. which later became Coastal States Gas and finally Valero Energy Corp. He retired from Valero Transmission Co. in 1989. Jimmy was an avid birder. He and his wife, Patty, were members of the Audubon Outdoor Club for many years. He and Patty hosted many eager birders from all over the world to view the migrating birds from their home on the Nueces River. Jimmy lead many birding field trips, sharing his knowledge of native birds. He is preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Patricia Anne, three sisters, Evelyn Polete (C.M. "Pop"), Betty Martens (Paul), and Joyce Peterson (Phil). He is survived by two sons, Gary (Jan) Swartz and Glenn Swartz; three grandchildren, Jason (April) Swartz, Greg (Pam) Swartz, Kathy (Travis) Kersten; seven great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. A special thanks to the staff at the Villa South Assisted Living facility and Christus Spohn Hospice for their special care and support in caring for Jimmy. Sawyer-George Funeral Home is in charge of cremation arrangements. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery. Those who wish may make donations to the Audubon Outdoor Club of Corpus Christi in his memory.