Obituary of Clara A. Swarts

Clara A. Swarts, 71, of Gloversville, passed away Tuesday morning, October 10, 2023 at Nathan Littauer Hospital, Gloversville. All her family and dearest friends were there at her side.

She was born September 21, 1952 in Gloversville, the daughter of Robert and Nina (Semione) Castiglione. She was a graduate of FMCC and the State University of Fredonia. Clara was employed as a schoolteacher and Principal at the former Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Gloversville, until it closed. She then worked at for a brief period at FMCC until her illness. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, reading and loved cooking the Italian way. She was a member of the Church of the Holy Spirt.

Clara is survived by her husband, Stephen J. Swarts; three children, Kym DeFranco, Joni Melville (Brian) and Robert Swarts (Alex Ziang); a sister, Joan M. Karas (George); five grandchildren, Maddox DeFranco, Nina DeFranco, Nathaniel Melville, Henry Melville and Stephen Ziang Swarts; as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 10 am to 11:30 am Friday, October 13th at the Church of the Holy Spirit, 153 S. Main St; Gloversville, where a Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 am with the Reverend Donald Czelusniak officiating. Interment will follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Johnstown. 

Clara's family would like to thank the 3rd floor staff of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Dr. Oba-Femi for their care and concern over the years, as well as thank you to New York Presbyterian and Dr. Richard Devereux and Dr. Leonard Girardi for their care.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Homes, Gloversville.