Don Swank

"Be sad today, but remember yesterdays" Don Swank, 80, of Peoria passed away peacefully at 5pm Sunday, June 3, 2012 surrounded by his very loving family. He was born in LaHarpe, IL on September 9, 1931 to Oliver and Ruth Hodgson Swank. He married Carol (Frisk) Collier on August 22, 1981 in California. He is survived by his loving wife, two sons, Kenneth (Celeste) Swank of Washington, Michael Swank of Florida; one stepson Stephen (Christy) Collier of Pekin. Also surviving are his two siblings Roy Swank of California and Marian Johnson of Oklahoma as well as four grand daughters, Karina, Kelsey, Beth and Janelle; three grandsons, Kris, Tyler and Ryan. His parents, one brother Bill Swank, one grandson Jeremy Swank, one niece Kay Johnson and a brother-in-law Raleigh Johnson, preceded him in death. He graduated from Manual Training High School. From there he went to Fort Bennings 82nd Airborne Division of the US Army. He very proudly served the Peoria Police Department for 26 years and another 12 years as the Peoria Heights Police Chief retiring in 1997. After his retirement, RV-ing and golf continued to be his two major pleasures. Don, you are loved and will forever be missed. Your spirit will live throughout each and every one of us that have loved you forever. Cremation rites have been accorded, and at the request of Don there will be no services. Memorials may be given in his name to OSF Hospice, or a cause of the donor's choice.