John Robert Swope

John Robert Swope , 91, of Owensboro, passed away on March 27, 2012 at his residence. He was born in Lovettsville, VA to the late Charles L. and Clara Agnes (Irwin) Swope.

John was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. He joined the Navy and served during World War II before enlisting and eventually retiring from the Coast Guard.
John then became a police officer in Beech Haven, New Jersey. After a few years as a police officer he was ready for something different so he purchased a semi truck. John drove long distance as an owner-operator for many years until his retirement at the age of sixty six.

In years past he attended Eaton Memorial Baptist Church and was a member of the VFW and Eagles Lodge. John loved the water, fishing and traveling in his R.V. with his sons.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Virginia Compher and Phyllis Fowler.

John is survived by two sons, Robert Swope (Crystal) and Bill Swope (Valerie), both of Owensboro; his former spouse and good friend, Mary Ellen Clark; grandchildren, Marisa Needels (Tom), Melanie Jordan (Jason), both of Nashville, Brandon Swope (fianc, Kelsi) and Austin Swope (Amber), both of Owensboro; two step grandchildren, Erin Richardson of Lexington, KY and Chaney Jeffries of Owensboro; great grandchildren, Taylor Needels, Lindsey Needels and Noah Jordan and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be on Thursday, March 29 from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory. A private graveside service will be held at Owensboro Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post # 696, 311 West Veteran's Blvd. Owensboro, Ky 42301 or Hospice of Western Kentucky 3419 Wathen's Crossing Owensboro, KY 42301.