Vija S. Swartzell

VIJA S. SWARTZELL

August 25, 1943 – April 19, 2024

ELKHART- Vija S. Swartzell, 80, of Elkhart, passed away Friday April 19, 2024, at Esther’s House Center for Hospice in Elkhart.  She was born August 25, 1943, in Riga, Latvia to Karlis & Zenta (Eglite) Kampars.

     On September 24, 2016, she married her partner of 25 years Steven K. Swartzell in Wisconsin.   He survives along with her daughter, Danielle (Jeffrey) Oswald of Battle Creek, MI; 2 grandchildren, Martin Oswald of Battle Creek, MI, Allison (Michael) Oswald-Bialecki of Springfield, MI; 3 siblings, John (Cathy) Kampars of Niles, MI, Aija (Howard) Blevins of Silver City, NM, Martin (Mary) Kampars of Jones, MI and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Richard “Ricky” Karlis Picon.

     Vija was a practicing Christian Scientist who spoke fluent Latvian and became a naturalized citizen on December 14, 1961.  She enjoyed dancing, gardening and was an avid dog lover.  She and Steve enjoyed going to Wisconsin to the cabin fishing.

     Vija worked at Himco in the office for 25 years, Instamatic in the office for many years and was the owner of REO INC. in Union, MI.  She and her mother at one time operated a seasonal flower stand in Union, MI.

     In keeping with her wishes, cremation will take place.  Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home is entrusted with her care.  Memorial contributions in memory of Vija may be given to the Cass County Humane Society.

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