Our thoughts and prayers go out to Phyllis J. Zumbrun, Mark,
and Robyn Schaefer; Jason, Laura, and Mattie Tyler of Westminster, and the friends,
family, and colleagues of Woody Swam. Woody will be greatly missed. We have all
benefited greatly from his service to our country and our community. You have
our deepest sympathy. Caroline Babylon and Kevin Dayhoff:
Elwood “Woody” Edward Swam, 80, of Hampstead, died
peacefully on Saturday, January 7, 2017. Born September 21, 1936, he was the
son of the late John Henry and Iova Walker Swam. Woody is survived by his wife
and best friend of forty-five (45) years, Phyllis J. Zumbrun.
Woody lived his entire life in Carroll County, Maryland.
Born and raised in Manchester, he graduated from Manchester High School as
president of the Class of 1954. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy
for flight training. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, he
pursued several business positions while attending law school at the University
of Baltimore. Upon graduation, he opened his law practice in Hampstead, which
he pursued for forty-six (46) successful years.
Woody dedicated his life to his law practice and the clients
he served. In his spare time, he enjoyed travel, golf, fine dining, and
entertaining. “Pushing the envelope,” he always welcomed challenges and would
rise to the occasion with his cleverness and wit. Being quite a rascal himself
in his youth, he enjoyed interacting with young people and served as a mentor
to many. Investments have always been an intense interest of his, but his
investment in others brought him the greatest dividends.
Woody was a member of the Maryland State Bar Association,
the Carroll County Bar Association, and the Jaycees. He served on the Maryland
Attorney Grievance Commission and the Trial Courts Judicial Nominating
Commission – Eighth District. As a behind the scenes advocate, he endorsed and supported
the missions and roles of NESAP, Carroll Hospice. Lineboro-Manchester Lions
Club, local fire departments, and educational opportunities.
Surviving in addition to his wife are brother, John Swam of
Manchester; brother Robert (Bob) Swam and wife, Carol, of Worton; sister,
Patricia (Pat) Martak of Abington; numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces
and great-nephews, and great-great nieces and great-great nephews. He was
predeceased by sister, Annabell M. Baer.
In addition, he is survived by his extended family, Mark and
Robyn Schaefer of Hampstead; Jason, Laura, and Mattie Tyler of Westminster; and
Emily Schaefer and Thomas Nelson, of Arlington, VA.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 11,
2017 at the ECKHARDT FUNERAL CHAPEL, P.A. 3296 Charmil Drive, Manchester, MD
21102 from 3-5 and 7-9p.m. and a memorial service will be held on Thursday,
January 12, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Interment is private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mc
Daniel College, c/o Lawrence R. Junkin, Two College Hill, Westminster, MD
21157. Online condolences may be offered at
www.eckhardtfuneralchapel.com
