Charles A. Swyers, age 77, of Vienna, passed away Sunday, August 16, 2009, at his home. He was born in St. James on April 22, 1932, son of the late Randolph and Florence (Mais) Swyers. On November 29, 1960, in Schweinfurt, Germany, Charles married Elisabeth Baier, who preceded him in death in 2002.

He retired from the U.S. Army in 1971 as a First Sergeant with 20 years of service. He served in the Korean Conflict and two tours in Vietnam and was awarded the Purple Heart Award. Charles was employed with the state for 20 years and was a member of the St. James VFW.

He is survived by two sons, Randy Swyers and wife Brenda of Vienna and Mike Swyers and Lily Johnson of Jefferson City; four daughters, Ursula Bell and husband Jim of Dixon, Silvia Groves and husband John of Dixon, Barb Bailey and husband Larry of Vienna, and Christy Warchol and husband Tony of Jefferson City; ten grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

He was also preceded in death by three sisters and one brother.

Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, August 19, 2009, at Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Iberia. Interment with military honors will be in Vienna Public Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the St. James Veteran's Home.