Ralph Swecker, D.D.S.

Ralph Hull Swecker D.D.S., 89, of Monterey, died Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at his home.  He was born October 20, 1920 in Blue Grass a son of the late Berlie T.  and Lillian (Hull) Swecker.

On August 22, 1953, he married Charlotte Louise “Dart” (Beverage) Swecker, who preceded him in death on December 28, 2003.  He was also predeceased by a sister, Louise Hogshead.

Ralph graduated from Crabbottom High School; he attended VMI and UVA and was a graduate of the Medical College of Virginia in Dentistry in 1944.  After serving as a dental officer in the U.S. Army during WWII, Ralph returned to Monterey and opened a dental practice that spanned for over fifty years.  He was a member of Monterey Presbyterian Church, Highland Lodge 110, Highland V.F.W. Post 4989, a past member of Monterey Lions Club and a board member of First & Citizens Bank.   Ralph was an avid fisherman, hunter and storyteller, who enjoyed time with his family and friends at his property, known as “The Hackens”.

He is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, Mark and Cindy Swecker of Monterey and Timothy Swecker of Swoope; four grandchildren, Jeremy and wife, Christina Swecker, Christopher Swecker, Aaron Swecker and Elizabeth Swecker and a brother, Berlie T. “Buddy” Swecker, Jr. of Bridgewater.

A funeral service will be conducted 2 p.m., Sunday, February 28, 2010 at Obaugh Funeral Home in McDowell with the Rev. C. William “Bill” Cox officiating.  Burial will be in the Monterey Cemetery.  Active pallbearers will be Herbert Lightner, Mark Arbogast, Mike Rogers, Terry Eye, Ricky Corker, Kyle Almond, Vernon Wooddell and Rob Warner.  Honorary pallbearers will be employees and board members of First & Citizens Bank and friends attending the service.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Highland County Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 268, Monterey, VA or Highland County Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 267, Monterey, VA 24465.