James R. Schwanke's Obituary
James R. Schwanke, 69, of North Syracuse, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, June 1, 2017. He was born in Syracuse, son of George and Mary (Druciak) Schwanke. James was a hard worker, holding two jobs for most of his life. He worked as a Newspaper Distributor with the Herald Journal and Post Standard for over 30 years and a School Bus Driver with the North Syracuse School District for 20+ years. He was also an avid golfer, even accomplished scoring a hole in one.
Besides his parents, he was also predeceased by his sister, Marilyn Schwanke and brother, George Schwanke.
James is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Sharon (Evans) Schwanke; two sons, Robert (Kimberly) Schwanke of Manlius and Andrew (Angela) Schwanke of Brewerton; four grandchildren, Evan, Ryan, Drew, and Julia; his brother, Donald (Kathleen) Schwanke of Syracuse; his sister, Kathy Hicks of Camillus, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and lifetime friends.
Funeral services will be held at 9:00 AM on Thursday, June 8, 2017 at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, followed by a Funeral Mass in celebration of James’ life at 10:00 AM in St. Margaret’s Church. Burial will be in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery, Baldwinsville. Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Wednesday, June 7, 2017 at the funeral home, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Margaret’s School Fund, 201 Roxboro Rd., Mattydale, NY 13211.
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