Alma R. (Aurand) Swartzell

Alma R. Swartzell, 84, of Lewistown died at 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2015 at Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital.

Born May 15, 1930 in Lewistown she was a daughter of the late Lester J. and Mary K. (Baker) Aurand.

In addition to her parents she was also preceded in death by: her husband, Kenneth D. Swartzell, on Dec. 8, 2012; her brother, John L. Aurand; and her sister, Helen M. Aurand-Soccio.

She is survived by: sons, Scott D. Swartzell, of Chester, Connecticut and Steve Swartzell and wife, Carol, of Lewistown; and three grandchildren, William, Benjamin and Rebecca Swartzell.

Alma was a resident at Ohesson Manor for the past three years.

Alma graduated as Valedictorian of Yeagertown High School Class of 1948.

She worked as a clerk at Standard Steel, Snedeker Oil Co., and lastly, at Lewistown Gas Co.

Alma was a member of Little Valley Presbyterian Church (Burnham Presbyterian Church), where she liked making half-moon pies, clerk of sessions at West Minister Larger Parish, the Fort Granville Grange, Mifflin County Homemakers and Senior Extension.

She enjoyed being with her family and friends, loved to sew, and taught 4-H kids how to sew.  

Alma was an avid walker at Kish Park walking with the “Early Birds”. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 29 at Heller-Hoenstine Funeral Homes, Inc., 108 First Ave., Burnham with Rev. Helen Kester officiating.

A viewing will be held from 10 – 11:00 a.m. Weds. at the funeral home.

Interment will take place in Church Hill Cemetery, Reedsville.

Memorials in Alma’s name may be made to Little Valley Presbyterian Church, 1392 Vira Rd., Lewistown, PA 17044.

 Service Information