Mark T. Swanka

Mark T. Swanka, 76, of Waterport, NY entered into rest peacefully on June 29, 2025 at his home following a lengthy illness.

Born May 7, 1949 in Buffalo, he was a son of the late Edmund T. and Gloria H. (Wengiewicz) Swanka.

Mark was retired from the U.S. Navy, having proudly served in the Medical Field Service, early in his career as a technician and for the duration as an instructor. He considered it an honor to serve alongside Marines while teaching field medicine. During his career, Mark was stationed at many different overseas bases and while assigned on the USS Forrestal, visited many foreign ports. Mark held numerous decorations and awards, including the Fleet Marine Force Ribbon, Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon and the Navy Achievement Medal.

Mark was an avid bird watcher and also enjoyed bicycling and swimming. He was an eloquent speaker with a love of literature and poetry.

In addition to his parents, Mark was predeceased by his dear grandmother, Martha Wengiewicz.

Left to cherish his memory are his siblings, Deborah (Steven) Klein, Claudia Walsh, Pamela Reinhoudt, Bonita Goodwin (John Colaluca, DO) and David Swanka; several beloved nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews; and best friend, Tim Roe.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 13 at 11:00 AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Burial at sea with full military honors is being planned for a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Memorial donations graciously accepted at the Yates Community Library, PO Box 485, Lyndonville, NY 14098 or the Friends of the Orleans County Animal Shelter at www.friendsoftheocas.org.