Walt Swain, 90, dies

by Marv Bachrad, publicity director, Dover Downs

Dover, DE — G. Walter Swain, 90, a longtime harness horseman from Lincoln, Del., died Sept. 10, 2014, at Bay Health hospital, Dover, Del., surrounded by his wife and children.

Born in Lincoln, Del., on May 4, 1924, he was a son of the late Harvey Swain and Iris Irland Swain. Following service as a Seebee in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Mr. Swain became active as a horse owner while operating Swains Construction Co. in 1955. Mr. Swain and his wife of 38 years, Judy, enjoyed racing a small table of trotters until recent years.

After graduation from Milford (Del.) high school and military service, Mr. Swain owned several ventures and was a prominent local businessman throughout his life. He was an avid gardener and loved spending time with his family and friends.

Known to many as “Pop,” Mr. Swain is survived by his wife of 38 years, Janet “Judy”; children, Belinda (Danny) Stuper, Robert J. (Robin) Wilson, Kim Wilson Rogers (Eddie), Karen White Pechart (Shawn) and Kelly White Peregoy; sister, Joan Swain Shockley; nine grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Delaware Horseman Association. Please make checks payable to: Welfare Trust Fund (this helps horsemen who have fallen on difficult times). Mail to: Delaware DSOA, 830 Walker Square, Suite 11-2, Dover, DE 19904.

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