Raymond David Swarts Jr.

January 23, 1945 – August 19, 2025

Loving father of Theresa (Collin) Krill, Tracy (Tom) Poole and Gregg (Jen) Swarts. Beloved grandfather of Gregg Swarts Jr. and Jaidyn Swarts. Great grandfather of Aubree Carlstrom. Dearest brother of Carl (Daisy) Swarts, Russell (Janice) Swarts and JoAnn (Tommy) Oster. Later in life, Ray was blessed to rekindle a cherished companionship with Toni Royer, who brought him joy in his youth as well as his later years. He was also a dear uncle, cousin and friend.

Ray was a lifelong member of Ironworkers Local Union 396, where he dedicated his career to building the structures that shaped our community, such as, Busch Stadium, St. Louis Convention Center, Monsanto Queeny Plant, Anheuser Busch Brewery along with many more. Ray's strong work ethic, craftsmanship and commitment to his union brothers and sisters left a legacy in the trade he so deeply respected.

Ray will be remembered not only for his skill and dedication as an ironworker, but also for his love of the outdoors, fishing, hunting, cars and watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball. Ray was a casino aficionado and storyteller extraordinaire with a tremendous sense of humor. His devotion to his family and friends was unprecedented.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Swarts Sr. and Agnes Swarts (nee Hagedorn), wife, Rebecca Swarts (nee DeBerry), son, Rick Hudelson, granddaughter Rebecca Benthal, nephew, David Swarts and Ray's dog Tanner, his faithful and constant companion.

Visitation, Saturday, August 23, 2025, 12 pm – 4 pm at Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin. The family will conclude the visitation at 3:45 pm with a loving eulogy and tribute to Ray. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Principal Wellness Caregivers, 2010 Missouri Avenue, Crystal City, MO. 63019.