Clarence L. "Bud" Swihart, age 73 of Mendon went to be with the Lord while surrounded by his loving family on Friday March 1, 2013. He was born in Colon, MI on March 31, 1939 the son of Walter and Ethel (Ware) Swihart. He worked at several area family farms while attending Colon Schools. He served with the U.S. Army and then became an independent trucker, travelling across the United States. He later operated Bud's Small Engine Repair in Mendon.

Bud attended the Crossroads Missionary Church. He was a member of the Free & Accepted Masonic Lodge #137 and the Order of Easter Star Chapter #154. He was a model car collector and a supporter of the International Student Exchange Program and had hosted 22 foreign exchange students. The family would like to express their thanks to the Three Rivers Health ICU, his home health care workers, and the Borgess VNA & Hospice for their compassionate care.

Bud was married to Betty Jane Smith on Dec. 2, 1975 in Jackson. She survives along with two sons, Lester "Ponch" (Evie) and Robbie; three daughters, Pamela, Terrie, and Rosella; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; four sisters, Phyllis Varner, Janette (Jay) Kelley, Carol Wadsworth, and Denise (David) Cook; six brothers, Walter (Sandy) Swihart, Bob Swihart, Ron (Pat) Swihart, Chuck Swihart, Tom (Diane) Swihart, and Ricky Swihart; many nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Bruce Allen Smith; a sister, Constance; two brothers, Harold and James; and a niece, Debbie Kelley.

Cremation has been conducted. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon and where Masonic Rites will take place at 4 p.m. on Sunday. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Monday March 4, 2013 at the Crossroads Missionary Church with Pastor Bryan Balasa officiating. The family suggests that donations be directed to F & AM Lodge #137, or to the Animal Rescue Fund. Online condolences may be left at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com