Samuel Bealor Swartz, Jr.

Samuel Bealor Swartz, Jr., 84, of Clear Lake, Iowa died Thursday, Jan. 28, 2016, at his home.

Per Sam’s wishes, his body has been cremated and a Celebration of Life will be from 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016, at his home, 5851 S. Shore Dr., Lot 20, Clear Lake.

Family suggests memorial contributions to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Sam was born Nov. 7, 1931, the son of Samuel Bealor, Sr. and Charlotte Ada (McEnelly) Swartz in Hanlontown, Iowa.  He married Charlotte Francis in 1954 in Sioux Falls, S.D.

A graduate of Hanlontown High School, Sam earned a degree in English and Journalism from Iowa State University.  He was a United States Army veteran, serving during the Korean Conflict.  He was a newspaper editor most of his life, writing columns for the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

Sam received a Pulitzer Prize for his involvement and work getting an ice rink in International Falls, Minn., as well as for a large article he wrote about his father after his passing.  Family and friends also recall an article written after a particular fishing trip to Canada, when he made Charlotte throw back a very large fish.  The article opened by asking the question, “Is it illegal for your wife to shoot you when you make her throw back a 20-pound fish?”

Sam enjoyed fishing, hunting, and especially loved spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Sam is survived by his wife, Charlotte Swartz of Clear Lake; six children, Debbie (Steven) Vagstad of St. Paul, Minn., Sam III (Dawn) Swartz of Minneapolis, Minn., Pat (Sam) Aroni of Port Richey, Fla., William Swartz of Isanti, Minn., Jackie (Carl) Folsom of Duluth, Minn., and Vickie Swartz of Alexandria, Minn.; 16 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a sister, Jean Sears of Madison, Wis., and a brother, Daniel (Shirley) Swartz, of Clear Lake.

Sam was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Scott; two granddaughters, Lisa and Stephanie Vagstad; a brother, David; and a brother-in-law, Stuart Sears.

Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 101 N. 4th St., Clear Lake, is in charge of arrangements, 641-357-2193, ColonialChapels.com.