Richard "Scratch" Swierczynski

Richard ""Scratch"" Swierczynski May 3, 1936 - October 10, 2015 Richard ""Scratch"" Swierczynski of North Port, FL, beloved husband of Sharon (nee Hanson), passed away peacefully from a battle with cancer on Saturday, October 10, 2015 at his home surrounded by loved ones. Richard was born on May 3, 1936 in Terryville, CT to the late Frank and Louise (nee Holda) Swierczynski. His love of sports developed at an early age. He excelled at basketball, helping his team win the State Championship in '53-'54, and in 1955 winning the State Championship in baseball for Terryville High School. That love continued throughout his life as an avid Red Sox, UConn Husky, and NY Giants fan. After graduation, Richard served in the US Air Force, returning to Terryville to work 20 years as a plumber with Vic's Oil & Heating and 20 years with Theis Precision Steel in Bristol, CT, retiring in 2000 and moving to North Port. Richard loved Florida; he took up golf, darts, and developed wonder friendships in LaCasa. Besides his devoted wife, he leaves his children, Michael (Nancy) of Wallingford, CT, Gary (Anna) of Farmington, CT, Jason (Yvonne) Gerrick of Thomaston, CT, Jennifer Gerrick of Manchester, CT, and Jessica (Michael) Rogers of Terryville, CT; his grandchildren Derrick, Michael, Jack, Riley, Natalie, Madison, Charlie, Brody, Lucas, Sophia, and Olivia. He is also survived by his sisters, Sister Agnella Swierczynski and Bernice Lukasewski, both of Terryville, CT; brother Frank of Clearwater, FL; brother-in-law Bob (Jody) Hanson of Martinsburg, WV; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Kasmir, Joseph, and Leo, and his sisters Mary Budzenski and Geneve Szczepanski. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice, Inc., 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238.