Firefighter/EMT Thomas J. Swichtenberg, 65, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away suddenly but peacefully in his own backyard while tending to his beloved chickens on Monday, May 5, 2025, around 5:00 p.m. Though unexpected, his passing came in a place he cherished, doing something he loved, beneath the open sky he often paused to appreciate.

Tom was born on March 11, 1960, in Elgin, Illinois, to the late Marvin and Rose (Cray) Swichtenberg. His upbringing was shaped by the strong values of hard work—qualities that would define his life and career.

In 1987, while in Phoenix, Arizona, Tom married his soulmate, M. "Millie" Clark. The two connected not only through their shared calling as EMTs, but through a deep, abiding love that would grow stronger over their nearly 40 years of marriage. Millie survives at home, still proudly calling herself his "best friend".

A man of immeasurable heart and hands always ready to serve, Tom was preceded in death by his cherished granddaughter Cassandra, whose memory he held close, and by his parents.

He is survived by a large and loving family: his children; Michelle (Paul) of Shipshewana, Indiana;  Robert of Elkhart;  Candace (Mario) of Leo, Indiana; Amber and Jamie, both of Elkhart; and his grandchildren: Dilin, Katlynne, Marshall, Ryan, Kate, Kaeley, Robert, Mackenzie, Kennedy, Riley, Teagan, Johnathan, and Jordan. He also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren, including one on the way, who will one day hear the stories of a grandfather who was larger than life. In addition to his human family, Tom's household always included several beloved dogs, who never lacked for treats, affection, or a cozy spot at his feet.

Tom proudly retired from the Cleveland Township Fire Department just one month prior to his passing, after a distinguished and impactful career in emergency services. A firefighter's firefighter, Tom joined the department in 2003, serving with strength, humility, and unshakable devotion for over two decades. Prior to that, he honed his skills and compassion as a First Responder and EMT with both Baugo and Osolo EMS.

Fire service wasn't just a job to Tom—it was a calling. His colleagues remember him as a man with an infectious laugh, a calming presence in the chaos, and a mentor who led not by demand but by example. Tom served on numerous boards and departmental committees, always advocating for the safety and wellbeing of both his crew and the community. He never hesitated to put himself on the line, and in return, earned the respect and admiration of those who served beside him.

Tom's passion for helping others extended beyond the firehouse. A former journeyman painter, he was also a master of many trades—a self-taught handyman, inventive problem-solver, and skilled cook. His famous potato salad was a staple at department cookouts and family gatherings alike.  Tom was known for being very opinionated and would never shy away from sharing his opinion on any topic.

When he wasn't fighting fires or fixing just about anything, Tom found his peace in simpler things. Chief among them were his chickens—over 60 at last count, housed in two sprawling coops he built himself. His family jokingly referred to him as the "chicken daddy," a title he wore with pride. While most people followed the price of eggs, Tom was too busy collecting them each evening to worry about it.

Tom's life will be honored with a memorial celebration on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services, with a gathering of family and friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Joel Gentz of Bethel Missionary Church in Wakarusa will officiate. Burial will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery. In tribute to his decades of service, Firefighter's Funeral Honors will be rendered by the men and women of the Cleveland Township Fire Department—his second family.

Cremation has taken place in accordance with Tom's wishes. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to:

Cleveland Township Fire Department 29515 County Road 6 Elkhart, Indiana 46514

Tom Swichtenberg lived a life of integrity, service, and love. He leaves behind a legacy that spans generations—a legacy forged in courage, tempered by compassion, and brightened by humor. His absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit lives on in every life he touched, every fire he fought, every opinion he told, and every egg he ever gathered.