SWINGLE, Cecil Fay

The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona February 23, 2003 Cecil Fay Swingle, 91, Arizona native, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 20, 2003. He was born December 20, 1911 in Dudleyville to Roy and Anna Swingle. Cecil spent part of his youth on cattle ranches in Dudleyville and Montezuma Valley. He attended Monroe Elementary School and Phoenix Union High School where Cecil was fortunate to play football on 3 state championship teams in 1930-31; still considered one of their best seasons. Cecil excelled in track and field. He set state records in the 220 yard dash, the 220 high hurdles, and the 440 relay. Cecil later delighted in the athletic abilities of his children and grandchildren. Cecil married Mary Ellen Dalton, November 17, 1942 in Phoenix, where the couple lived until 1961. After they moved to Scottsdale with their 7 children they remained faithfull parishioners at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church until they moved to Tempe and joined Holy Spirit Church. Cecil retired from the Arizona Department of Corrections in 1975. He enjoyed daily swims with his pool buddies until age 89. Cecil's dry humor endeared him to his grandchildren as much as it exasperated his wife and children. Cecil was preceded in death by one grandchild, Brandon VanderZanden. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Mary Ellen; sons, Joe (Aline), Dan (Diane) and Steve; daughters, Mary (Doug) Stanley, Cathy (Frank) McMillan, Marilyn (Mike) Barrington, and Chriss (Marc) Lame; 24 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren. Cecil is also survived by one brother and 2 sisters. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Holy Spirit Church and St. Vincent de Paul Society. Visitation will be Monday, February 24, 5-8 PM, rosary at 7 PM, at Tempe Mortuary, 405 E. Southern. Funeral will be Tuesday, February 25, 10:00 AM, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Burial is at St. Francis Cemetery. Maps to reception will be provided. Courtesy of Pat Wilson.