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William F. "Bill" Swietzer, SFC E7, age 83, of Coplay, Pennsylvania, passed away on January 29, 2026. Born on January 30, 1942, in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, he grew up in Palmerton and lived most of his adult life in Danielsville, PA where his life was marked by service, ingenuity, and duty to his family.
Bill studied Chemistry and Physics at Pennsylvania State University and later expanded his knowledge in Computers and Networking at Allentown Business School and Northampton Community College. His academic pursuits laid the foundation for a diverse and accomplished professional life.
He began his career in chemical manufacturing with J.T. Baker Chemical and The Bethlehem Corporation before joining GAF—later acquired by Tarkett Flooring Company—where he spent 17 years as a Research Technician. There, he supervised processing conditions for vinyl flooring production and earned a patent for an embossed sheet-type covering material, reflecting his innovative spirit.
Later in life, Bill transitioned into the field of computers while continuing to explore entrepreneurial ventures. He founded and operated several businesses over the years including Swietzer Sales & Service—selling CB radios and Kero-Sun heaters—the Cambridge Diet Program, a general store in Berlinsville, and Cleans4Less in Coplay. His drive to create and build was evident throughout his life.
A proud veteran, Bill served nearly thirty years in the Army National Guard as a Sergeant First Class (E7), based out of Lehighton and Allentown with the 213th Regional Support Group. His long-standing commitment to military service exemplified his dedication to community and country.
Bill was also deeply involved in local athletics. He ran an adult basketball program in Whitehall, played in a senior men's baseball league, and coached his daughter’s 16 & under softball team to a league championship—a memory he cherished. He took great pride in caring for his parents and providing for his family. He championed the talents and skills of both daughters with admiration, especially enjoying music performed by his daughter, Mindy.
A true “Jack of All Trades,” Bill dabbled in astronomy, photography, mechanics, and was always ready to fix anything—as long as someone was nearby holding the flashlight. He rebuilt his home in Danielsville after surviving the tornado of 1981 with his family—a testament to his resilience—and later made Coplay his home.
Bill is survived by his daughters Michelle Schroettner and Mindy Hinkel; sister Sandra Simon; nephews David Miller and Jeffery Swietzer; grandchildren Christa Schroettner and Andrew Schroettner; and one great-grandson.
He was preceded in death by his wife Carol A. (Kunkle) Swietzer; parents Ethel E. (Pfaff) Swietzer and Joseph J. Swietzer; and brother Leslie G. Swietzer.
Bill’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched - through his curiosity, courage to fix and solve problems, and exemplary service.
Services are private.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to Wounded Warrior Project
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