Our condolences to the Swank family and the Bellville-Jefferson Township Fire Department of Ohio. Lieutenant Leo Swank, 50, a 27 year veteran of the Bellville-Jefferson Township Fire Department, died Saturday morning, March 16, 2002. Leo was returning to the fire station from a chimney fire. He was in a rear facing jump seat when he suffered a massive heart attack. He fell from the truck into the street only a block from the firehouse.

     Leo was a lieutenant, EMT, and served as president of the Jefferson Township-Bellville Firefighter's Association. Leo's three sons, Leo Junoir, Jesse, and Charles, are all members of the department, and Leo Junior was expected to graduate from paramedic school in May. In addition to his three sons, Swank is survived by his wife Pamela, two daughters and a granddaughter.

     Leo served with the U.S. Army's 25th Infantry during the Vietnam War, and was a member of the American Legion, Bellville Post of the V.F.W. and the National AMVETS. Leo Swank operated the BP gasoline station in Bellville for many years. After the station closed a year and a half ago, he went to work for Wade and Gatton Nurseries as a mechanic.

     Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, March 19, 2002, 2-8PM at the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home, 81 Mill Road, Bellville, OH 44813. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, March 20, 2002, 11AM at the funeral home, followed by a full procession to Belleville Cemetery. Members of the Jefferson Township-Bellville Fire Department will serve as color guard, and Irvin Hiskey Post #535 American Legion will hold graveside military honors.

     Memorial contributions may be made to: