John Lee Swartz, 79, of Pittsburg, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri.
John was born March 18, 1947, in Pittsburg, Kansas, to Charles and Nora Lee Storie Swartz. He graduated from Pittsburg High School in 1965 and joined the United States Air Force in 1972. During the Vietnam War, John served with the Third Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Group and was awarded the Airman’s Medal for Valor for his bravery.
John spent much of his life serving others. His career included working as a police officer, EMT, Director of EMTs, Sheriff’s Department, and later as a campus police officer at Pittsburg State University. He also served as Director and Road Captain of American Legion Post #64 and most recently belonged to Frontenac American Legion Post #43. He was also active in the Veteran’s Sons and the Masonic Lodge of Pittsburg.
On September 23, 2000, John married Rita McNeely at First Christian Church in Pittsburg. She survives at the home.
John was proud of his military service and loved being recognized as a veteran, but his greatest pride was his family. He loved his people fiercely and would do anything for them. He had a big heart and a hard time saying no when someone needed help. Throughout his life, John took people under his wing and was always willing to lend a hand, offer advice, or simply be there.
John was funny, sarcastic, and never afraid to tell you exactly what he thought. He had a quick temper, but an even bigger heart. Those who knew him best knew that beneath his stubborn streak was a man who cared deeply about the people around him.
Some of John’s favorite moments were simple ones spent with family. He loved family dinners, whether that meant making a big pot of chili and inviting everyone over or deciding at the last minute that everyone should meet at the chicken house. For John, it was never really about the food or where they went. It was about having his people together.
John is survived by his wife, Rita Swartz; son Nathan Swartz (Tiffani); daughter Kimberly Swartz; grandchildren Colton, Allana, and Michael Quigley, Braelyn and Hayden Swartz, Hope Hendricks and Nicole Gallagher; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
John will be remembered for his service, his humor, his stubborn streak, his generous heart, and most of all, the way he loved and took care of his family and the people he considered his own.
Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, at Brenner Mortuary Chapel with Daryl Gaddy officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Mt. Olive Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Patriot K-9 and may be left in care of Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762.
