Barry Swartz, 83, a lifelong resident of Pottstown, passed away peacefully at Sanatoga Center on October 9, 2026.
Born and raised in Pottstown, Barry learned the value of hard work at an early age by caring for his sister and helping his family run “Swartz’s”, their neighborhood convenience store located in Stowe.
Barry was a 1961 graduate of Pottstown High, where he developed a lifelong passion for baseball. During his high school years, he also met his sweetheart, Suzanne (Sue Fisher). They married and spent 64 years together, building a life and raising their children in the town they were proud to call home.
Barry volunteered as a baseball coach for many years, sharing his knowledge of the game with countless young athletes in the area. He was a lifetime member and served on the Board of Director’s of the North End Swim Club, and he supported St. Peter’s Lutheran church to honor the legacy of his parents . Barry worked for Metropolitan Life Insurance Company before later joining the staff of Giant Food Stores in Pottstown.
Beyond baseball, Barry enjoyed listening to golden oldies, collecting records, and dance. He valued simple pleasures in life, like visits over coffee, fishing, and exchanging stories with friends.
Barry is survived by his wife, Sue; and his three children, Tara Duke and her husband, Robert; Matt Swartz and his wife, Leslie; and Jessica McCartin. Affectionately known as “Poppy,” he leaves behind six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He will also be missed by his loving sister, Bonnie Keim.
Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Josephine (Neiman) Swartz, of Belmont Street in Pottstown.
Barry’s enthusiasm for sports, fondness for doo-wop music, and quick wit were defining parts of his life. He will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.
A celebration of life will be held for Barry at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends when arrangements have been finalized.