Ronald R. Sweigart

HAGERSTOWN, Ind. – Ronald R. Sweigart, 74, of Hagerstown, Ind., left his earthly dwelling and was called home by his Savior and Lord Jesus Christ on June 11, 2009, after an extended illness. Ron was born February 20, 1935, in New Castle to William and Elizabeth Hickman Sweigart. He married the love of his life, Barbara Shoemaker in 1962. Ron and Barb moved to Richmond, Ind., in 1977 where Ron pastored The Church of the Open Door from July 1977 to December 2008 when he became very ill. Ron’s first love was preaching the good news of the Gospel. He enjoyed fishing, watching sports and loved keeping a nice yard. He also enjoyed collecting toy tractors. He grew up playing euchre and his biggest pleasure was to play euchre with his children and family and two very special couples. He also dearly loved family reunion time and seeing everyone gather. Ron was a very wonderful, thoughtful, loving husband and father. He loved to make people laugh and his sense of humor was enjoyed by all who knew and loved him. He was well gifted in writing poetry and wrote many to his wife and family. Survivors include his wife of 47 years, Barbara Shoemaker Sweigart; son, Gary, wife Linda Sweigart of Trinity, Florida; daughter, Ronda Shaffer, companion Jr. West of New Castle; son, Dale, wife Cindy Sweigart of New Castle; son, John, wife Lucy Sweigart of Atlanta, Indiana; four grandsons, Brody, Kevin, Jason Sweigart and Jeremy Lovell; six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews; two sisters, Freda Turner and Jody Burk, both of New Castle. Ron was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Dale, Bill, Christian and Fred; and three sisters, Grace, Agnes and Maxine. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, June 15, 2009, at Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond, with Associate Pastor Russell Thomas officiating. Calling will be from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, June 14 at the funeral home. Burial will be in West Lawn Cemetery, Hagerstown. Memorial contributions may be made to The Church of the Open Door, 13553 Sheridan St., Richmond, IN 47374. Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com

Ronald R. Sweigart

February 20, 1935 - June 11, 2009