In loving memory of Joseph “Paul” Swartz of Laingsburg, Michigan. He was born on March 21, 1952 in Bartleyville, Washington County, Pennsylvania, and passed away on May 2, 2024, at the age of 72. A wonderful and beloved father and husband, he will be forever missed.

Paul graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Forestry. He spent many years in private industry as a working arborist, involved in all areas of tree care. Later he transitioned into a consultant, teacher, trainer, and speaker valued for his knowledge of all aspects of Urban Forestry. The last 29 years of his career, Paul was proud to serve as the Michigan State University Campus Arborist, directing the care of the university’s historic tree collection. His passion for nurturing and caring for the campus trees has left a lasting impact on the MSU community.

Outside of work, Paul found joy in restoring wheel horse tractors and equipment. His hobby kept him very busy in his retirement -- he was regarded as an authority on these collectible machines, and made many friends throughout Michigan and surrounding states. He loved trading knowledge, lore, and parts with fellow enthusiasts.

He was a kind and generous person, and was always willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors. He frequently enjoyed mowing, cutting wood, rototilling, snowblowing, and grading driveways for people when opportunities arose. Paul was content being a valued and contributing part of the little rural community in Michigan he called home for most of his 72 years.

Paul's life after retirement was rich and full in so many ways and gave him great happiness, but his greatest pleasure was spending quality time with his beloved family, especially his precious grandchildren Lily and Ella, and their parents -- his treasured daughter Ashley and his wonderful son-in-law Micah.

Paul is survived by his loving wife Melinda, his daughter Ashley, his son-in-law Micah, his granddaughters Lily and Ella, and his siblings Jean (Joe) Antonetti, Fran (Hal) Marsh, Mary (Dave) Painter, Grace (Dave) Sharp, Betty (Ron) Robinson, Jim (Kim) Swartz, and many dearly loved nieces and nephews, in-laws, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents Angeline and Frank Swartz.

A Memorial Service to honor and celebrate Paul's life will be held at the Lake Lansing Park North - Main Shelter (6260 E Lake Dr, Haslett, MI 48840) on June 1, 2024, at 12 pm.

Paul will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.

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