Esther Elvira Adele Anderson
James Strickland Swarts was born July 18, 1916, in Coffeyville, Montgomery Co., KS, and died April 28, 1944, in England, at age 27. Originally buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Surry, England, UK. Reburied August 5, 1948, in Fort Bliss National Cemetery, El Paso, El Paso Co., TX. He attended the Georgia Military College and the University of Georgia. His father is also buried in Fort Bliss National Cemetery. He is the son of James Waite Swarts of Springwater, Livingston Co., NY, and Katherine Claire "Katie" Strickland of Duluth, Gwinnett Co., GA. Catherine died July 20, 1916, in Coffeyville, Montgomery Co., KS, two days after the birth of her son, at age 36. James Strickland Swarts was a Navy Lieutenant in the Oklahoma USNR, killed in action during WWII. He and Esther lived at 2331 15th St., N. W., Washington, DC, when he died.
Esther Elvira Adele Anderson was born May 29, 1917, at home, Town of Sigel, Wood Co., WI, and died September 4, 2006, in Chandler, Maricopa Co., AZ, at age 89. Buried in National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ. She is the daughter of Gustaf Erec Anderson of Jeppa Parish, Län Co., Finland, and Elda Marie "Mary" Eriksdatter/Erickson of Vörĺ, Vasa Lan, Finland.
Esther Elvira Adele Anderson was adopted at age six weeks by Arthur David Larson of the Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI, and her name was changed to Esther Adele Larson.
James Strickland Swarts (age 26), a bachelor, and Esther Elvira Adele Anderson/Larson (age 25), a maiden, were married May 1, 1943, at the Naval Air Station, Dallas, Dallas Co., TX.
James Strickland Swarts and Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson) Swarts had no children.
After James Strickland Swarts died, Esther Adele (Anderson/Larson) Swarts, a widow, married Albert Herbert "Al" Pletenik.
Albert Herbert Pletenik was born January 2, 1916, in Lodi, Passaic Co., NJ, and died May 10, 2005, in Chandler, Maricopa Co., AZ, at age 89. Buried in National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ. He is the son of Julius Miloslar "Jules" Pletenik (born March 1, 1888) of Štrba, Poprad, Slovakia (Hungary), and Margarette "Margaret" Unknown of Hungary. Margarette was born May 21, 1895, in Unknown, and died April 2, 1967, in West Covina, Los Angeles Co., CA. Julius lived in Sharon, PA, in 1913. Julius is buried in Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Slovak Cemetery, Hazleton, Luzerne Co., PA.
Albert Herbert Pletenik (age 32), a bachelor, and Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson) Swarts (age 31), a widow, were married June 17, 1948, in Clifton, Passaic Co., NJ.
Albert Herbert Pletenik and Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson) (Swarts) Pletenik had two children:
TIMELINE
Julius Miloslar "Jules" Pletenik is buried in
Albert Herbert Pletenik and Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson) (Swarts) Pletenik are buried in National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ. Thanks to Find-A-Grave for making these images available.
Albert Herbert Pletenik and Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson) (Swarts) Pletenik are buried in National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ. Pictures were taken December 12, 2021. Please note the Lincoln cents placed on the grave markers, often a sign of remembrance and respect.
James Strickland Swarts is buried in Fort Bliss National Cemetery, El Paso, El Paso Co., TX. Thanks to Find-A-Grave for making this image available.
James Strickland Swarts was originally buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Surry, England, UK. Reburied August 5, 1948, in Fort Bliss National Cemetery, El Paso, El Paso Co., TX, where his father and stepmother are also buried.
Gust Anderson and Anna Meroimdski were married August 2, 1904, in Oneida Co., WI.
The 1905 Wisconsin State Census taken on June 1, 1905, shows Arthur D. Larson (age 24) born in Wisconsin to Swedish-born parents is a Farmer owning his own farm with a mortgage and living in the Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI. Living with him is his wife, Norma V. Larson (age 25) born in Illinois to Swedish-born parents. Also living there is Arthur's unmarried brother-in-law: Theron Nelson (age 17) born in Illinois to Swedish-born parents, who is a Farm Laborer.
The 1905 Wisconsin State Census taken on June 1, 1905, shows Gustave Anderson (age 32) born in Sweden to Swedish-born parents is a married Laborer who rents his home and is living in the Village of Hazelhurst, Oneida Co., WI. Living with him are: his wife, Ella Larson (age 23) born in Sweden to Swedish-born parents; and his son, Charles Anderson (age 7) born in the United States to Swedish-born parents.
The 1910 U. S. Census taken on April 28, 1910, shows Arthur D. Larson (age 29) born in Wisconsin to Swedish-born parents is a Farmer owning his home and living in the Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI. Living with him is his wife of 6 years, Norma V. Larson (age 30) born in Illinois to Swedish-born parents. Also living there is Albert Durant (age 34) who is a Farm Laborer Servant.
The 1910 U. S. Census taken on April 28, 1910, shows Gustav Anderson (age 37) born in Finland to Finnish-born parents and having emigrated in 1891 is a Wood Piler at a Lumber Yard renting his home and living in the Town of Hazelhurst, Oneida Co., WI. Living with him is his childless wife of 10 years, Ella M. Anderson (age 28) born in Sweden to Swedish-born parents and having emigrated in 1898. Also living there is his nephew: Charles E. Anderson (age 11) born in Michigan to Swedish-born parents.
On April 18, 1910, Julius Miloslar "Jules" Pletenik declared his intent to become a United States Citizen.
Julius Miloslar "Jules" Pletenik Citizenship intent.
Daily Leader, Grand Rapids, Wood Co., WI, Tuesday, July 13, 1915
SIGEL
Mr. and Mrs. Gust Anderson returned home last week from Falun, Wisconsin, where they had spending a week. They brought with them a fine five-year-old boy whom they will adopt.
Gustaf E. "Gust" Anderson Family Baptism Records.
Albert Herbert Pletenik was born January 2, 1916, in Lodi, Passaic Co., NJ.
James Strickland Swarts was born July 18, 1916, in Coffeyville, Montgomery Co., KS
Esther Elvira Adele Anderson was born May 29, 1917, at home, Town of Sigel, Wood Co., WI.
The WWI Draft Registration Report dated June 5, 1917, shows Julius Miloslar "Jules" Pletenik, born March 1, 1888, is living in New York.
The Grand Rapids Tribune, Grand Rapids, Wood Co., WI, August 23, 1917
Mr. and Mrs. Gust Anderson came home Monday from Sheridan, having spent Sunday at the C. Lareson home.
The 1920 U. S. Census taken on January 2, 1920, shows Arthur Larson (age 38) born in Wisconsin to Swedish-born parents, is a married U. S. Mail Carrier, and who owns his home with a mortgage, and is living in the Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI. Living with him are: his wife Norma V. Larson (age 39) born in Illinois to Swedish-born parents; his son, Carl Larson (age 11) born in Wisconsin to Wisconsin and Illinois-born parents; and his daughter, Esther Larson (age 2) born in Wisconsin to Wisconsin and Illinois-born parents.
The 1920 U. S. Census taken on January 2, 1920, shows Edith Anderson (age 3-6/12) born in Wisconsin to Finnish-born parents, is a Boarder in the John Vandalson household, and is living in the Town of Sigel, Wood Co., WI.
The 1920 U. S. Census taken on January 8, 1920, shows Margaret Pletenik (age 23) born in Hungary to Hungarian-born parents, and having immigrated in 1909, and having applied for citizenship, is a widowed Mender in a Wool Mill, and is renting her home, and is living at 14 East Russel Street, 4th Ward, City of Clifton, Passaic Co., NJ. Living with her are: her son, Feok Pletenik (age 5-6/12) born in New York to Hungarian-born parents; and her son, Albert Pletenik (age 4) born in New Jersey to Hungarian-born parents.
The Wood County Tribune, Grand Rapids, Wood Co., WI, Wednesday, May 18, 1921
SIGEL COUPLE ARE UNITED IN MARRIAGE
Gust Anderson and Anna Johnson, both of the town of Sigel, were united in marriage Tuesday evening, April 10th, at five o'clock at the home of the bridegroom. Rev. F. G. Oleson, pastor of the Lutheran church of this city, performed the marriage service. They were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Lee Anderson at matron and groomsman. Following the ceremony a wedding dinner was served to fifty guests. The house and tables were decorated with spring flowers. The newlyweds will reside on Mr. Anderson's farm near Sigel. Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Larson of Sheridan, Wis., were out of town guests.
Back row, L to R: Helen M. (Frazer) Larson, Walter Emanuel Larson, Norma Victoria (Nelson) Larson, Arthur David Larson, Unknown man, Unknown woman, and Almo Joshua Larson. Front row, L to R: Olive Wilma Larson, Carlo the dog, Elizabeth Ellen "Betty" Larson, Esther Elvira Adele Anderson, Gustav Alfred "Fred" Johnson, and Cora Ethel Olivia (Johnson) Johnson, at the Almo Larson farm, Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI, about 1930.
The 1930 U. S. Census taken on April 12, 1930, shows Arthur D. Larson (age 49) born in Wisconsin to Swedish-born parents and first married at age 23 is a General Farm Farmer owning his farm and living in the Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI. Living with him is his wife Norma Larson (age 50) born in Illinois to Swedish-born parents and first married at age 24. Also living there are his children: Carl Larson (age 11) born in Wisconsin to Wisconsin and Illinois-born parents; and Esther Larson (age 12) born in Wisconsin to Wisconsin-born parents. Also living there are two Lodgers: Gordon Moore (age 15); and Lawrence Oliver (age 25) a Farm Laborer.
The 1930 U. S. Census taken on April 9, 1930, shows Gust E. Anderson (age 58) born in Finland to Finnish-born parents and having emigrated in 1890 with Al citizenship status and first married at age 28 is a General Farm Farmer living in the Town of Sigel, Wood Co., WI. Living with him is his wife Anna Anderson (age 52) born in Sweden to Swedish-born parents and having emigrated in 1902 with Al citizenship status and first married at age 22. Also living there is his daughter, Edith Anderson (age 13) born in Wisconsin to Swedish-born parents.
Norma Victoria (Nelson) Larson died Monday, May 8, 1933, at Community Hospital, Waupaca, Waupaca Co., WI, at age 53. Buried in Salem (Old Swede) Cemetery, Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI.
Oshkosh Daily Northwestern, Oshkosh, Winnebago Co., WI, Wednesday, May 10, 1933
WAUPACA FARM RESIDENT DIES
Waupaca, Wis. - (Special) - Mrs. Arthur D. Larson, 53, died Monday at Community hospital following an illness of about three weeks. She lived on a farm about six miles west of Waupaca. Funeral services will be held Thursday afternoon at 1 o'clock at the home and at 2 o'clock at Immanuel Lutheran church in this city, Rev. F. A. Reier officiating. Burial will be in the Farmington Swedish cemetery.
Following is the newspaper obituary for Norma (Nelson) Larson.
Mrs. A. D. Larson
Mrs. Arthur D. Larson, nee Norma V. Nelson, was born in Rockford, IL on March 23, 1880. There she grew up to womanhood, graduating from Rockford high school, thence preparing herself for the teaching profession. She taught in the Kish-Waukee schools of Rockford for six years. On April the 6, 1904, she was united in marriage to Arthur D. Larson of the Town of Farmington. In 1920 Mr. and Mrs. Larson purchased the F. C. Fisher farm then owned by Mr. D. F. Burnham of this city. There she lived until she was taken to the Waupaca Community Hospital April 20, 1933, where she underwent a serious operation. An embolus became lodged on the brain causing a condition which all medical skill was helpless to remove. She passed away Monday afternoon, May 8,1933 at 12:25. Mrs. Larson leaves to mourn, her husband and two children, Carl, 24, stationed at Ft. Snelling, MN, and Esther, 15, a student at Waupaca high school. Another son, born Jan. 20, 1923, died at birth. Also surviving are her parents and five brothers, Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Nelson, Clarence and Theodore, Iona, SD, Morris, Rockford, IL, Theron, Ludington, MI, and Loyal of Green Bay, and a large number of relatives and a host of friends. A most sincere Christian spirit was ever manifested in her daily life. It was always a pleasure for her to take into her home children who were in need of a Mother's care. More than a score of children have been cared for at different times in the Larson home. In the church, Sunday School, and Ladies Aid Society she was a most devoted member, always taking part in the activities of Christian service. Her membership was in the Immanuel Lutheran church, of Waupaca. In the community she was an inspiration for others, always ready and willing to give of herself to make others happier. The funeral is being held this Thursday afternoon, May 11, 1933 at one o'clock from the home, followed by service in the Immanuel Lutheran church conducted by Rev. F. A. Reier. Interment will be in the Salem cemetery. Pallbearers are John Erickson, Oscar Modeen, Leonard Peterson, Edwin Anderson, D. F. Burnham, and George Madson.
Another article followed a few days later.
The funeral rites for Mrs. Arthur D. Larson of Farmington were held Thursday, May 11, 2 p.m., from Immanuel Lutheran church, Rev. F. A. Reier officiating. Interment was in Salem Lutheran cemetery.
A large number of relatives and friends from out of town came to attend the funeral, among them: Mr. and Mrs. Morris Nelson and son Morris, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. John Wanfalt, Mr. and Mrs. Sven Noren and Mrs. Reynold Winquist, Rockford, IL; Theron Nelson, Ludington, MI; Mr. and Mrs. Loyal Nelson, Green Bay; Mrs. Amanda Hoffman, Mrs. C. Oscar Larson and children, Robert, Charles and Rosanne, Rev. and Mrs. A. C. Rylander, Rev. H. H. Sanstedt, and Mrs. J. Dahlquist, Chicago; Rev. C. A. Rosander, Crystal Falls, MI; Rev. and Mrs. J. A. Olson, Unity, WI; Miss Cora Johnson, Gerhard Johnson, Boyceville, WI; Axel J. Anderson and daughter Marion, Gust. E. Anderson and daughter Edith, Erick Anderson and two children, Wisconsin Rapids, and Mrs. Christine Norlin and son Clarence of Saxeville.
Stevens Point Daily Journal, Stevens Point, Portage Co., WI, Friday, June 8, 1934
Oakland Briefs
Mr. and Mrs. Almo Larson attended the graduating exercises at Waupaca high school Friday evening. Esther Larson, a niece of Mr. Larson, was a graduate.
Esther Elvira Adele Anderson/Larson was a member of the 1934 Graduating class of Waupaca High School, Waupaca, Waupaca Co., WI. This is from the 1932 Centurion Yearbook when she was in the Sophomore Class.
The News, Paterson, NJ, Thursday, March 2, 1944
Bombardier
ALBERT H. PLETENIK, of 88 Union avenue, Clifton, was awarded the silver wings of the aeirial bombardier and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Army Air Force at exercises recently at Kirtland Field, Albuquerque, N. M. Son of Mrs. Margarette S, Pletenik, he was an office worker before joining up. He attended Clifton Hig School where he was a member of the football and baseball teams, Paterson Prep when he was graduated in 1933, and Columbia University. Prior to being stationed at Kirtland Field, the new officer was trained at Kingman, Ariz., at a flexible gunnery school
Arthur David Larson and Caroline Barbara (Schnacky) (Wetherbee) Vedner were married October 2, 1937, at the Arthur Larson residence near Sheridan, Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI.
Arthur David Larson and Caroline B. (Schnacky) (Wetherbee) Vedner Marriage Record.
Left to Right: Arthur David Larson, Caroline Barbara (Schnacky) (Wetherbee) (Vedner) Larson, Emma Jane (Abbey) Larson, Walter Emanuel Larson and Helen M. (Frazer) Larson, and Almo Joshua Larson.
Following is the newspaper article about the Larson-Vedner wedding on October 2, 1937.
The Larson-Vedner Wedding Saturday
A beautiful marriage occurred Saturday at high noon when Caroline Vedner became the bride of Arthur D. Larson at the Larson farm home near Sheridan. The bride was attired in a lovely gown of white panne satin and carried a bouquet of American Beauty roses and baby's breath. Vernon Wetherbee gave the bride in marriage. Mrs. Paul Bammel sang "The End of a Perfect Day", accompanied by Mrs. Leonard Peterson, just before the bride's entrance. Yellow and salmon-tinted gladioli and ferns formed the background in the parlor where the couple said their vows before Rev. F. A. Reier. Autumn leaves and pompons also decked the rooms. A green and gold color scheme was carried out in the dining room where covers were laid for 30 relatives and friends at an elaborate wedding dinner. Rev. Reier acted as toastmaster, as the guests toasted the bride and groom, while telegrams of congratulations were relayed over the telephone to Mr. and Mrs. Larson from relatives too distant to attend. The following were among the invited guests: Rev. and Mrs. F. A. Reier and daughter Delores; Mr. and Mrs. Almo J. Larson, Waupaca; Wilbur Larson, Green Bay; Miss Esther Larson, Chicago; Vernon Wetherbee, Waupaca; Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Peterson, Sheridan; Mr. and Mrs. P. B. Bammel, Mr. and Mrs. D. F. Burnham, Waupaca; Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Olsen, Racine; Mr. and Mrs. Hy. (Henry) Schnacky, Cudahy; Mrs. O. Helpap, Orviz Helpap and Miss V. Dahlberg, Rice Lake. Mrs. L. Syms and Miss M. Lindstrom catered. Mrs. M. May, Henrietta Burnham, Gladys Bammel and Corintha Reier served as waitresses. Mr. and Mrs. Larson left in the afternoon for a trip through Wisconsin, Minnesota and the Dakotas, to visit relatives and are returning this week Friday.
The Appleton Post-Crescent, Appleton, Outagamie Co., WI, Monday, October 4, 1937
Vednor-Larson
Saturday noon occurred the marriage of Mrs. Caroline Vednor and Arthur D. Larson, both of Waupaca, the ceremony taking place in the home of Mr. Larson with the Rev. F. A. Reier, pastor of Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran church, officiating. The couple was attended by Miss Esther Larson, Chicago, daughter of the bridegroom, and Vernon Weatherbee, son of the bride. The Lohengrin wedding march was played by Mrs. Peterson and during the ceremony Mrs. Paul Bammel sang (The End of a Perfect Day", accompanied by Mrs. Peterson. Twenty-five guests were served a wedding dinner immediately following the ceremony by the Misses Sylvia Bammel, Henrietta Burnham and Corintha Reier. The couple left for a trip to Unity, Wis., and will return within a few days to the farm home of Mr. Larson.
Esther Elvira Adele Anderson/Larson enlisted December 25, 1939.
The 1940 U. S. Census taken on May 17, 1940, shows Arthur D. Larson (age 59) born in Wisconsin and having completed 1 year of High School, and 5 years ago was living in the same house, is a married Farmer owning his farm worth $3,500 and is living in the Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI. Living with him are two married adults: a Lodger, Louis Mittelstaedt (age 25) born in Wisconsin and having completed 8 years of schooling, and 5 years ago was living elsewhere in Waupaca Co., WI, a Farmer; and Virginia Mittelstaedt (age 25) born in Illinois and having completed 4 years of High School, and 5 years ago was living elsewhere in Waupaca Co., WI, a Housekeeper. Census ED 68-11, Page 23 of 32. Leigh Larson note: Arthur's divorce from Caroline would become official about one month after the census was taken.
The 1940 U. S. Census taken on May 2, 1940, shows Gust Anderson (age 67) born in Finland, and having completed 3 years of School, and 5 years ago was living in the Same House, and a Naturalized Citizen, is a widowed Farmer who owns his farm worth $1,000 and is living in the Town of Farmington, Waupaca Co., WI.
The 1940 U. S. Census taken on April 12, 1940, shows Esther Adele Larson (age 22) born in Wisconsin, and 5 years ago was living in Chicago, Cook Co., IL, and with 4 years of High School, is an unmarried Airline Stewardess, and is Boarding at the Sanford Hotel, 140-40 Sanford Avenue, Queens Borough, Queens Co., NY. Living with her are four Guests: William Thornton Swain, Mary L. Bean, John West Rogers, and Margaret Hart.
The 1940 U. S. Census taken on April 11, 1940, shows Margaret Pletenik (age 44) born in Hungary, and 5 years ago was living in the Same Place, and with 8 years of School, and a Naturalized Citizen, is a widowed Mender at a Woolen Mill, and is renting her home for $24/month, and is living at 226 Dayton, 4th Ward, City of Clifton, Passaic Co., NJ. Living with her is her unmarried son, Albert Pletenik (age 23) born in New Jersey, and 5 years ago was living in the Same Place, and with 3 years of High School, a Butcher in the Butcher Business.
The 1940 U. S. Census taken on April 8, 1940, shows Theodore Pletenik (age 25) born in New York, and 5 years ago was living in Clifton, Passaic Co., NJ, and with 2 years of High School, is a married Butcher, and is renting his home for $35/month, and is living at 54 Division Avenue, 4th Ward, City of Garfield, Bergen Co., NJ. Living with him are: his wife, Anna Pletenik (age 22) born in New Jersey, and 5 years ago was living in Clifton, Passaic Co., NJ, and with 4 years of High School; his son, Theodore Pletenik (age 2) born in New Jersey; and an unmarried Lodger, Alexander Yorkowsky (age 23) born in New Jersey, and 5 years ago was living in Manville, Sannut Co., NJ, and with 4 years of High School, who works in a Paper Mill.
The 1940 U. S. Census taken on April 8, 1940, shows Clifton Hunt (age 29) born in North Dakota, and 5 years ago was living in the Same Place, and with 8 years of School, is a married Railroad Laborer who is renting his home for $25/month, and is living at 709 York Street, 1st Ward, City of Saint Paul, Ramsey Co., MN. Living with him are: his wife, Sall Hunt (age 26) born in Minnesota, and 5 years ago was living in the Same Place, and with 2 years of High School; and his daughter, Sharon Hunt (age 11/12) born in Minnesota.
Appleton Post-Crescent, Appleton, Outagamie Co., WI, Tuesday, August 13, 1940
Air Stewardess Visits At Home of Parents
Waupaca - Miss Esther Larson, R. N., daughter of Arthur D. Larson, town of Farmington, stewardess on the American Airlines, spent the latter part of the week at her home. Selected from several thousands of applicants for the position, Miss Larson has been employed by the Air Lines for several weeks.
James Strickland Swarts and Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson Marriage Record.
Appleton Post-Crescent, Appleton, Outagamie Co., WI, Monday, May 3, 1943
Larson - Swartz
A. D. Larson, Waupaca, has received word of the marriage Saturday evening in Dallas, Texas, of his daughter, Miss Esther Larson, R. N., and Lieutenant James S. Swartz. The couple will make its home in Dallas for the present where the bridegroom, an officer in the naval air corps, is taking specialized training. A graduate of Waupaca High school and of the Augustana Hospitol School of Nursing in Chicago, the bride was employed for a year in a hospital in Nashville, Tenn. She then accepted a position with the American Airlines, from which she resigned Saturday.
James Strickland Swarts died April 28, 1944, in England, at age 27. Originally buried in Brookwood Military Cemetery, Surry, England, UK. Reburied August 5, 1948, in Fort Bliss National Cemetery, El Paso, El Paso Co., TX. He was killed in a German U-boat attack on his LST during training exercises about six weeks before the D-Day. Lieutenant Swarts was aboard the LST 507 when, during a practice exercise called "Operation Tiger" off the coast of England at a place called Slapton Sands. The LST was attacked by German E-boats. At some point during this action he was killed. On the beaches of Slapton Sands, there remains a small memorial to the 946 men who lost their lives that April day in 1944.
The El Paso Times, El Paso, El Paso Co., TX, Thursday, May !8, 1944
Lt. J. Swarts Dies In Action Near England
Lt. (s. g.) James Strickland Swarts, of the Navy, son of J. W. Swarts, Van Horn attorney, has been killed in action somewhere near England according to word received by his father from the War Department. His body will be buried on neutral territory pending the cessation of hostilities, the message read. A memorial service for Lieutenant Swarts will be held on Sunday, May 28, at noon at the First Methodist Church in Van Horn under the auspices of the local American Legion and other ex-service men. Lieutenant Swarts is also survived by his wife, Mrs. Esther Larsen Swarts of Dallas, who is now residing in Washington, D. C. where she is in service as a nurse. The couple was married May 1, 1943. Other relatives surviving are an aunt, Miss Elizabeth Strickland of Coffeyville, Kan., and an uncle, Harry S. Swarts of Tulsa, Okla. Lieutenant Swarts volunteered in the Navy on Feb. 28, 1941 and was commissioned an ensign by Acting Secretary of the Navy James Forrestal. He was sent to the Hawaiian Islands, and from that base operated in the Pacific and Aleutians for two years. He was at Pearl Harbor at the time of the attack. He returned to the United States in the spring of 1943. At the time of his death he was in special training of amphibious warfare and command of his ship.
The 1950 U. S. Census taken on April 4, 1950, shows Albert Pletenik (age 34) born in New Jersey, is a married Accountant for an Engineering Company, and is living in the basement of a house at 2513 83rd St., Queens, New York City, NY. Living with him is his wife, Esther Pletenik (age 32) born in Wisconsin to United States-born parents, and with 2 years of College, an Industrial Nurse.
Albert Herbert Pletenik and Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson) (Swarts) Pletenik moved from New York to California in 1958.
Albert Herbert Pletenik and Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson) (Swarts) Pletenik moved from California to Arizona in 1998.
The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ, November 9, 2001
Evie Cortés-Pletenik, a Spanish teacher turned administrator, nagged Camelback High School students to show up at a weekend study session for an upcoming AIMs graduation test. Urban youngsters had better things to do on weekends, or at least they believed. With the help of Camelback staff members, Cortés-Pletenik launched a letter-to-parents campaign last year asking them to remind their children about study sessions. The number of students who showed up for the review surprised staff members. The ability to coordinate and multitask are Cortés-Pletenik's strongest gifts. She also describes herself as a team player who is a "caring and nurturing person" who makes people feel valued and empowered. "True leadership comes when you give it away and create leaders," she said. Administration is not something I sought; it chose me," Cortés-Pletenik said. Her young background perhaps mirrors that of many Phoenix Union students. Many hopscotch among school campuses and districts. The Cortés family seemed to be constantly on the move. "There were a lot of PS's in my life," she said, referring to the way schools are numbered based on regions in the Big Apple. She ticks off a list of schools near Staten Island and the Bronx. She lacked role models and needed direction. A fourth-grade-teacher named "Mr. Epstein" latched her onto a teaching career. The North High School principal believes that teachers carry a big influence with students. After completing high school in 1979, she went to Lubbock Christian University in Texas. "I hope to have that here at North High," Cortés-Pletenik said. "I plan to lead by example." Cortés-Pletenik moved to Phoenix in 1987. She taught at Westwood High in the Mesa Unified School District, worked with a Valley education consultant and joined the Phoenix Union High School District as a human-relations specialist. She worked with an education dropout grant that allowed her to work with Phoenix elementary students and later snared an assistant principal spot at Camelback. Friends and colleagues noted her ability to lead and encouraged her to pursue an administrative position. Again, she listened, applied for the North High principal spot and got the job. Challenges that face Phoenix Union principals include new accountability issues. There is the federal "No Child Left Behind" and the state's "Arizona Learns" programs that demand improvement in urban student test scores, a higher graduation rate and a lower dropout rate. Cortés-Pletenik said she has a very dedicated staff at North High willing to face those challenges. "We will be able to deliver a quality education," she said. "It's the right thing to do."
March 23, 2003 •• 47 words •• ID: pho69525712 In his first message to Congress, on April 16, 1945, President Truman said, "The responsibility of the great states is to serve and not dominate the world." Apparently President Bush never learned this lesson and is now paying the price. -- Albert H. Pletenik Chandler
Albert Herbert Pletenik died May 10, 2005, in Chandler, Maricopa Co., AZ, at age 89. Buried in National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ.
The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ, May 13, 2005
Albert H. Pletenik, 89, of Chandler, passed away May 10, 2005. Born in Lodi, NJ Jan. 2, 1916 he was truly a man of our Greatest Generation. He endured the Depression, served in WW II, married an army nurse, educated via the GI bill, migrated westward to So. Calif. in 1958 where he lived until his 1998 move to AZ. A 1st lieutenant in the Army Air Corps 15th Air Force, he saw action in Europe and Africa as a B-17 navigator/bombardier. He married Esther Adele Larson in 1948. Graduated magna cum laude from NYU., Al's chosen profession was accounting, including 20 years with U.S. Borax. But family always came first. He loved to learn and pass on knowledge and interests included politics, the stock market, playing golf and following sports. His compassion and respect for his fellow man showed through in his values, friendliness, sense of humor and gift for conversation. He is survived by Esther, his wife of 57 years, children Diane and Craig (Evie) and two grandchildren, Erica and Ian. Services Sat., May 14, 11 a.m. at Bueler Mortuary, 14 W. Hulet Dr., Chandler. Interment will be at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, May 16 at 9 a.m.
The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ, May 14, 2005
Albert H. Pletenik, 89, of Chandler, AZ, passed away May 10, 2005. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps WWII. Visitation 1 hr prior to service. Services May 14, 2005 11 am, Chapel of Bueler Mortuary, 14 W. Hulet Drive, Chandler, AZ.
Esther Elvira Adele (Anderson/Larson) (Swarts) Pletenik died September 4, 2006, in Chandler, Maricopa Co., AZ, at age 89. Buried in National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ.
The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Maricopa Co., AZ, September 7, 2006
OBITUARIES
Esther L. Pletenik, 89, of Chandler completed a loving and fulfilling life Sept. 4, 2006. Born in Wis. Rapids, May 29, 1917, Esther Adele Larson left the farm at age 17 for Chicago and nursing school. She became an R.N. and among her positions that followed was stewardess for American Airlines and its historic DC-3 fleet. She served in WW II as a 2nd Lieutenant Army nurse. Married for less than a year to a naval officer who was killed in combat, her fortunes turned forever when she met and married Albert Pletenik in 1948. They enjoyed 57 years of marriage until his death in 2005. They moved from NY to Calif. in 1958 before coming to AZ in 1998. Esther loved, laughed and lived every day. Among her interests were her children and grandchildren, church, travel, baking, knitting, crocheting, bowling, golf, exercise, baseball, reading, scrabble, crosswords, bingo and Red Hats. She was a thoroughly modern woman 70 years ago, and never lost that style, class and independence. She is survived by children Diane and Craig (Evie) and two grandchildren, Erica and Ian. Services Fri, Sept. 8, 9 a.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Chandler, and interment at National Memorial Cemetery of AZ at 1 p.m.
Richard Ray Huffman died September 21, 2008, in Texas, at age 56. Buried in Fairview Cemetery, Randlett, Cotton Co., OK.
Richard Ray Huffman Burkburnett, TX Died: September 21, 2008 Richard Ray Huffman 56, of Burkburnett died Sunday September 21, 2008. Services will be held Thursday September 25, 2008 at 2:00 PM at New Hope Church of the Nazarene in Burkburnett Rev. Philip Kennedy and Dave Newton officiating, burial will be at Randlett Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Owens & Brumley Funeral Home in Burkburnett. Huffman was employed by Hayes General Store in Burkburnett. He was born in El Monte, California December 7, 1951. He is survived by 3 brothers; Lewis Huffman of Burkburnett; Tony Huffman of Louisville, Kentucky; and Thomas Huffman of Pomona, California. and by 3 sisters; Margaret Tucker of Baldwin Park, California; Shirley Ganon of Hillsborough, Oregon; and Lissie Coy of Medford, Oregon. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be Wednesday September 24, 2008 from 6 to 8 PM. at the funeral home.
Theodore S. "Ted Muffin" Pletenik Sr. died Tuesday, May 22, 2012, at age 74.
BUTLER - Services were held for Theodore S. "Ted Muffin" Pletenik Sr., 74, of Paterson, who died on Tuesday, May 22, 2012. He was the brother of Marguerite Evans of this borough.
Born in Passaic, Mr. Pletenik lived in Clifton for most of his life before moving to Paterson in 2005. He was a salesman for S.B. Thomas, Wayne. Also, he was a U.S. Army veteran. He was a member of the Passaic County Golf Course, Wayne, where he was a ranger and a starter for the past 13 years. And, he was a coach for the Clifton Central Division Baseball League for many years.
Services were Saturday at the Shook Funeral Home, Clifton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to a charity of your choice.
Mr. Pletenik also is survived by his wife, the former Arlene Pirone; his son, Theodore, of Paterson; her daughters, Amy Rypkema of New York, and Lori Pletenik of Paterson; and four grandchildren.