Remembering Mark Allen Swoboda

Mark Allen Swoboda, 74, of Salem, Ohio, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Salem Regional Medical Center. His family is heartbroken, but they take comfort in remembering the man he truly was—steady, humble, and happiest living a simple, grounded life.

Mark was born on May 16, 1951, in Warren, Ohio, to Charles and Elizabeth Swoboda. He met Jane Runeric back in high school, and from that point on, they were a pair. They married on July 6, 1973, and spent 52 years building a life together.

About twenty years ago, Mark and Jane settled onto a quiet stretch of land in Salem—15 acres that quickly became their favorite place in the world. Mark loved being outside. If there was a bonfire going, he was nearby. He spent his days mowing, planting, or just taking in the peace of the property. He didn't need much—just the outdoors, a good breeze, and the comfort of home.

Their place became the family's gathering spot. Holidays, birthdays, cookouts—everything happened there. Mark especially loved the holiday traditions: the familiar routines, the decorations, the food, and having everyone together. He was the grandpa who'd pull a train of grandkids behind his mower, taking them along the trails he'd carved through the yard.

In his younger years, Mark enjoyed golfing. He wasn't flashy about it—just someone who liked being out on the course with friends, taking his time and enjoying the day.

He and Jane had a favorite spot on the porch—two chairs and a little table between them. They spent countless hours there, talking, relaxing, or just sitting quietly together. That porch held a lot of memories.

Mark graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and spent some time at Youngstown State. He worked hard throughout his life—first at Stambaugh Thompson, then at the CCA Commissary in Youngstown. Even after retiring, he stayed busy, helping folks at the Salem Walmart with the same easygoing kindness he showed everywhere he went.

He enjoyed the simple things: the Canfield Fair, drives through Amish Country, finding a good book at a sale, cheering for Ohio State on Saturdays, and listening to the sermons at Concord Church from Rev. Joyce Reynolds.

Mark leaves behind his wife, Jane; his children, Kate Collier, Matthew (Jessika) Swoboda, and Sarah Swoboda; his brother, Barry (Kathy) Swoboda; and 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

He'll be remembered in the crackle of a fire, the hum of a mower, the quiet porch conversations, and the way he made people feel welcome. His legacy lives on in the land he cared for, the family he raised, the traditions he loved, and the steady, dependable way he showed up for the people around him.

A Memorial Gathering to share and visit with luncheon will be held on February 18, 2026, from 10 am to 2 pm  at Birch Hill Cabin,  45 Birch Hill Dr.,  Youngstown, OH  44509