Gary F. Swope

Gary F. Swope, of Lancaster, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at The Springs at Wyandot Trail.

He was born in Zanesville to the late Carlos “Bud” and Ruth (Wayte) Swope on May 19, 1941. Gary was a 1959 graduate of Zanesville High School and as a youth he worked on the Longshore Turkey Farm.

Gary was a Law Enforcement Officer for thirty years with the Division of Wildlife Ohio Department of Natural Resources and retired as Law Enforcement Supervisor at the Athens office.

He married Marjorie (Watts) Swope on April 20, 1968, in Duncan Falls. During their married life they traveled in the Lower 48 states in their camper. Gary was a member of the Hocking Hills Church where he sang in the choir, the NRA, Ohio Game Protector’s Association, Amity Masonic Lodge, and Order of the Eastern Star. He loved the outdoors and hunting, fishing, and hiking. Gary created a trail through the wooded area of the Hocking Hills’ Church property and was recently honored by the congregation. It was named “Swope’s Loop” in his memory.

He is survived by his wife, Margie; sons, Aaron (Heidi) and Adam (Jenny); grandchildren, Hannah (Jake), Gavin, Gracie, Izaac, Ava, Sophie, and Liv. Gary also has a brother, Ron, and a sister, Nancy.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and two infant children, Chad and Elisha.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to be made to: Lifewise Academy, which can be done by mailing a check to Hocking Hills Church, P.O. Box 865, Logan, Ohio 43138.

The Farus Funeral Home of Duncan Falls is in charge of arrangements. A private graveside service will be held and Gary will be laid to rest at Duncan Falls Cemetery.

www.farusfh.com