Raymond "Ray Swan" Szwankowski, a proud World War II veteran, man of faith, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, at the age of 99.

Born in 1926 in the Manayunk section of Philadelphia, Ray grew up during the Great Depression and came of age during World War II. At 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving on the Pittsburg (CV 72) in the Pacific. His story of the typhoon and loss of the bow of the Pittsburg were a constant source of wonderment for his family.

After returning home he met Florence (Zawistoski).  In 1951, after she finished her nursing training, they married and together they raised their daughter, Susan, in Mayfair. He worked for over four decades at many legacy Philadelphia companies including Budd, Philco, RCA, and finally Univac/Burroughs/Unisys.  As a line supervisor, he was known for his fairness, reliability, good humor, and steady work ethic.

From his younger days, Ray liked good baseball and had competed on some local teams.  He enjoyed games at Shibe Park and was a fan of the Phillies and Eagles and for the past few years was enjoying the Kansas City Chiefs.  In his retirement, Ray rarely missed watching a game, even late into the night.  He took great joy in working in the yard and nurturing the plants around their Torresdale home, where Ray and Flo had moved to care for Florence's mother.

Ray, Florence, and Susan loved car trips, exploring various sites in the United States.  As Seniors they joined many bus tours and visited all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and various Caribbean Islands. They also enjoyed Tony Bennett and loved to dance, which they did at their daughter's and both granddaughters' weddings.  Ray was a faith filled Catholic who attended daily Mass, said numerous daily Rosaries and would help anyone in need.

His grandchildren and great grandchildren knew that Pop Pop could fix anything, especially ornaments and beloved toys.  Ray had an artist's eye and classic fashion sense. He was the main fashion consultant on shopping trips with Flo and Susan. He possessed keen observation skills and was always quick to compliment any minute change.

Ray is survived by his daughter, Susan (Jim); two granddaughters: Lauren (Elton) and Alison (Joseph); and five great-grandchildren: Violet Marie, Owen Raymond, Siena Alice, Beckett Nasri, and Cecilia Noor. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Florence, his sister, Jean, and his brothers, Frank and Richard.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing Thursday at 9:00 AM, Burns Funeral Home on Frankford Avenue, his Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM at St. Katherine of Siena Church followed by interment at Resurrection Cemetery in Bensalem, PA.

In lieu of flowers, Mass Cards or contributions to St. Katherine of Siena Parish, 9700 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19114 in Ray's memory would be appreciated.

Though quiet in nature, Ray will be remembered for his quick wit, his unwavering sense of duty, and his deep love for his family and his neighbors. Remember Ray with a Tastykake (especially Butterscotch Krimpets) and a HOT black coffee.