Kenneth Bruce Swart

Kenneth Bruce "Ken" Swart, of Hanover, died peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the South Shore Hospital in Weymouth. He was 78.

Ken was born in Boston on February 4, 1946, and was adopted and raised by the late John H. and Myrtle A. (Clapp) Swart. He was raised in Abington and attended local schools. Ken graduated from Weymouth High School with the Class of 1963. After graduation at age 17 Ken enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War . Ken was no ordinary seaman . He became a crewman in the Navy’s elite helicopter rescue team . Ken served aboard the 6th Fleet Carrier USS Franklin D Roosevelt , known to its crew as “Rosie” . He was honorably discharged on September 9, 1969.

Ken’s life was marked by a spirit of hard work, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to those he cared about. His professional journey began at Pennsylvania Dutch Fudge , where he learned the value of hard work and service. He later underwent management training at Brigham’s Ice Cream, and it was there that he opened a franchise of one of the brand’s most memorable locations at South Shore Plaza in Braintree. After retiring from Brigham’s, Ken’s work life took him to Lang’s Garage in East Weymouth, where he served as a mechanic and tow truck driver, always ready to lend a hand with a smile. His final professional chapter was spent at Foodies Grocery Store in Duxbury, where he continued to embody the work ethic and dependability that defined his career.

Ken’s personal life was just as full and vibrant. A lover of music, Ken could play the piano by ear and enjoyed playing the drums as well as playing his harmonica with Lynne strumming her guitar around a campfire . Whether hosting a party or simply enjoying a night out, Ken had a natural gift for bringing joy to those around him. He was known for his love of dancing, a great party, and always being in the company of others. He cherished the outdoors, particularly his camping trips in New Hampshire, Maine, and on Cape Cod, where he made countless memories with his family.

A passionate sports fan, Ken was an avid New England Patriots enthusiast. He also enjoyed playing golf, bowling, and often spent time on the ice, playing hockey with his son, further illustrating his love for both competition and family bonding.

Ken was a man of character—hardworking, loving, dependable, and deeply intelligent. His patience and loyalty were qualities that everyone around him admired. As a family man, Ken devoted his life to those he loved, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.

Ken was the beloved husband of Lynne R. (Reiman) Swart, with whom he shared 55 loving years of marriage. Lynne fell in love with Ken after the first time meeting him, remembering how his eyes smiled at her. He was the devoted father of Kenneth B. “Ken” Swart Jr. and his wife Lauri of Scituate. Ken was the loving grandfather of Birch and Monte Swart, both of Scituate. He was the dear brother of Marsha Lang of South Weymouth, and the late Marilyn Donohue and her surviving spouse Duane of Vermont. Ken was the dear brother-in-law of Carol Donovan and her husband John of Braintree, Donna Reiman of Worcester, Erla Mallett and her husband Kevin of Northboro, and Robin Feigelman and her husband Mark of Westboro. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Following cremation, Kenneth's funeral services and interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Ken's name to the charitable organization of one's choice.