Richard N. Swackhamer of Madison passed away July 28, 2010 at MetroHealth Trauma Center in Cleveland. He was born June 16, 1943, in Gallipolis, Ohio and grew up in Mason, West Virginia. He graduated from Middleport High School, completed his undergraduate degree at Ohio University, and earned a Masters? degree at West Virginia University. Mr. Swackhamer retired after a 38-year teaching career in Madison Local Schools, Meigs High School and Rutland High School. He coached middle school basketball, served as president of the Madison Education Association, and chaperoned many eighth-grade field trips to Washington, D.C. For many years, he officiated for area football and basketball games.

As his children were growing up, Mr. Swackhamer coached youth basketball, soccer, and softball.

Mr. Swackhamer was active in the church, serving as a Sunday School superintendent and teacher. He sang in the Chancel Choir and played in the bell choir at Central Congregational Church, where he was a member.

Richard was active with Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. He served as assistant Scoutmaster and worked on advancement for Troop 157, and helped lead three Boy Scout High Adventures, including Philmont in New Mexico, Sea Base in Florida, and Northern Tier in Minnesota. He completed Wood Badge training, participated in Friends of Scouting, and worked at the district level for the Grand River District. In 2004 he was recognized with the District Award of Merit.

He sang baritone in two barber shop choruses, The Johnnycake Ridge Singers and Cleveland East. He brought humor to many barbershop performances through his role as emcee.

?Swack? enjoyed reading, camping, and traveling. He was well-known for playing Santa for children?s events. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Cheryl (Davis) Swackhamer, daughter, Amy, and son, Tyson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nolan P. Swackhamer and A. Lucille (Jividen) Swackhamer and his brother, Charles.

Friends will be received 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm, Saturday, July 31, 2010, at The Behm Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26 River Street, Madison, Ohio.

Funeral Service will be 2:00 pm, Sunday, August 1, at Central Congregational Church, 71 Park Street, Madison, Ohio. Officiating will be Rev. Harry Buch. Final resting place will be Fairview Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to Central Congregational Church, Madison Public Library, East End YMCA, or Greater Western Reserve Council BSA Campership Fund.