 William R “Bill” Swiontkowski Jr., went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, October 23, 2024. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Cheryll in February of 2022. Bill was born on December 2nd, 1942 in Newark, New Jersey to Agnes Eileen Baker Swiontkowski and William Robert Swiontkowski Sr.
In 1955 Bill’s family moved to Southern California and settled in La Habra, where Bill graduated from Washington Junior High School and La Habra High School, graduating in 1961. In 1962 Bill entered CLC. He studied Spanish and English and was a member of the inaugural football team. He also ran track and cross country for CLUC. Bill worked in the summers for the Dallas Cowboys who had their summer training camps at CLC and always had great stories to tell regarding the shenanigans of young professional athletes.
Bill enlisted in the United States Army and served 2 years on the DMZ in Korea. He later received his teaching degree from California State University Northridge. Bill and Cheryll were married on March 13, 1971 in La Habra at his home church. Bill took a teaching position in Ventura County and Cheryll transferred to the State Hospital of Camarillo as the couple purchased a home in Newbury Park which would be their residence throughout their married life.
Bill spent over 30 years as an elementary school teacher with a brief foray into junior high. He taught various grade levels but his favorite was 4th grade. He was gifted as a bilingual teacher which was very useful in Ventura County. He frequently was involved in teaching physical education in addition to classroom duties. Upon his retirement from teaching in the Ventura public schools, he taught at Ascension Lutheran School for a number of years. After he retired from teaching altogether, he enjoyed participating as a driver for disabled adults. Bill and Cheryll joined Ascension Lutheran church in 1980 and continued as very active members until their passing. Bill and Cheryll loved to travel in retirement. They traveled to England, Ireland, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Bill’s favorite spot was the maritime provinces of Canada. Throughout his life Bill enjoyed music of all genres, Sherlock Holmes, the LA Rams and Dodgers and in the final chapter of his life his faithful dog Jack who was with him to the end.
Bill was one of the founding Members of the 5th Quarter Football Club. He served on the Club’s Board of Directors and was the Chaplain and Historian until his passing. He was an eager volunteer in all the Club’s promotions and activities. In 2015 Bill was the recipient of The Davey Spurlock Fighting Heart Award.
Bill is survived by his son Mark Northrup and his wife, Lana. Grandsons Carter Northrup, Adam (Denise) Northrup and Scott (Cynthia) Northrup and great grandson Maxwell Northrup; Brother Marc and his wife Beth and their children Tim (Dena,) Jeff (Devan) and Ellen (John) as well as 5 nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his CLU 5th Quarter Football posse. He so looked forward to the Wednesday get togethers (and his cheeseburger) the last 15 years of his life. Bill was a people person who pursued deep relationships throughout his life. He struggled after he lost his beloved Cheryll and with his declining health, but it was those relationships that sustained him until he could be together with her with the Lord.
Memorial contributions may be given to Ascension Lutheran School, Thousand Oaks, CA |
