Biography

Charles James Swinney, 65, of Pataskala, died early Tuesday, February 16, 2010 in Columbus following an extended illness. He was born October 26, 1944 in Warner Robins, GA, the son of the late Lewis R and Nettie (Reeves) Swinney. Charles was a retired Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate in the US Navy after 21 years. He spent many years on assignment in Antarctica, where he served as Load Master ABHC on C-130 Hercules aircraft in Operation Deep Freeze. He was a member of Squadron VX-6, Antarctica 1963-1969 and 1973-1979. He also participated as a member of the flight crew that transported National Science Foundation in photo mapping and exploration of Anarctica. He retired as Crash Crew Chief on USS American (CV66) 1982-1984, and also worked for the Department of Defense/Norfolk Naval Air Terminal. He was a life member of the Old Antarctic Explorers Association, member VFW, and had attended the Tri-Village Christian Church in Pataskala.
He is survived by his wife Elaine Villies Swinney, his two sisters Joyce (Carter) Ramsey of St. Simons Isle,GA. And Mildred (Morel) Wester of Savannah, GA.
His family will receive friends on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 from 6 pm until the time of a service celebrating his life at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of THE HOSKINSON FUNERAL HOME, 285 E Main St in Kirkersville, where Pastor Paul Snoddy will serve as celebrant. His remains will be laid to rest in the family plot in Rockmart, Georgia. Memorials may be directed to the Arthur C. James cancer hospital at Ohio State University. An on-line guest register and video tribute to Charles are available at www.hoskinsonfuneral.com. Hoskinson Funeral Home is honored to care for the Swinney family.

Celebration of Life Service

Tuesday February 23, 2010, 7:00 PM at Hoskinson Funeral Home
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Calling Hours

Tuesday February 23, 2010, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Hoskinson Funeral Home
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