Carlos F. Swayze, Okanogan, beloved husband, son, brother, father, grandfather and friend passed away surrounded by his family on Dec. 2, 2007 at Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born March 23, 1939 in Omak, Carl was the second child born to William and Helen Swayze. He was raised in Okanogan, graduating with the class of 1957. Carl enjoyed working at EZ Cleaners, Schalows and the Goldmark Ranch during his high school years so he could feed his love for cars. After high school he went to work for Biles and Coleman until he was injured in 1963. He married Sharon Hammer July 1, 1961. He joined the National Guard in high school and served for several years. Carl worked at the Standard Station in Okanogan; he oversaw the building of the new Chevron station in Okanogan and he continued his mechanics career there until the mid-1980’s. Carl then joined his father at Bill’s Repair. The two were regularly seen making parts runs to town. He closed Bills Repair in 2004 to have more time for family and friends.

Carl loved the Okanogan. He was always willing to lend a hand. He had a special place in many people’s hearts for the wonderful help and care he gave them and their vehicles. He enjoyed the many hours he spent with his fishing buddies. His grandchildren were the light of his life and he was grooming a new generation of fishing buddies. His cat, Callie, was a great comfort and friend. Carl, you are greatly loved and will be greatly missed.

Carl is survived by his wife and soul mate, Sharon; daughter and son-in-law, Laurie Swayze and Jay Carter of Okanogan; daughter and son-in-law, Sarah and Scott Sample of Almira; son and daughter-in-law, Bill and Mary Swayze of Okanogan; daughter and son-in-law, Monique and Bill Coburn of Monroe; grandchildren, Marissa and Nathan Carter, Morgan and Ryan Sample and Hailea and Dalton Swayze; mother Helen Swayze of Okanogan; sisters, Carol, Margaret, Mary and Patty of Okanogan and Cathy Forks; and brother, Dennis of Omak.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bill and brother, Pete.

Rosary will be held Friday, Dec. 14, 2007 at 7 p.m. at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Okanogan. Services will be held on Saturday, Dec. 15, 2007 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Okanogan. Father Jake Morton will be presiding. Memorials may be made to the Guild House, 901 Red Apple Road, Wenatchee, WA 98801 or Camp Progress Scholarship Fund, PO Box 592, Okanogan, WA 98840.

Precht-Harrison-Nearents Chapel and The Okanogan County Crematory will be overseeing the services held for Carl.