Was One Of The First Licensed Skydivers In The United States

Jack E. Swope, 92, passed away at his home on Sunday, June 16, 2019. He was one of the first licensed skydivers in America. He built an airport on his property in Cloverdale, where he and Thelma enjoyed flying family and friends all over the country in one of his many airplanes.

Swope was born in Indianapolis on March 31, 1927 to Charles and Agnes Swope. He was a Korean War veteran, serving proudly as an Army Staff Sergeant.

He was married to Thelma (Query) Swope for 57 years, and she preceded him in death on July 13, 2010. Together they owned and operated two very successful businesses in Cloverdale, The Clover Queen Drive-in and Swope Realty and Auction Company.

Jack was well-known throughout the community not only as a stellar businessman, but also as a daredevil who spent his free time chasing adventures around the world. He became known for his fantastic feats over the years, most famously as the Uncle Sam who carried the World’s largest skydiving U.S.A. flag attached to his leg during jumps.

The green and white Swope Realty hot air balloon was a fixture in the Owen and Putnam county skies for more than a decade.

Jack is survived by his daughters, Joyce Champ of Copperas Cove, Texas and Jacki (Ron) Secrest of Quincy; five grandchildren, Taylor (Patrick) Neal, Sonnet (Daniel) Marr, Jake (Kala) Secrest, Lee Secrest and Max Secrest; as well as three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his long-term caregiver and best friend, Leah Lynn Moy of Cloverdale.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Friday, June 21 at Whitaker Funeral Home, 201 N. Lafayette St., Cloverdale, with family friend Jeff Davis officiating. Interment is at Cloverdale Cemetery. Jack will be honored with a full military service at this time.

(Source: PDM Aviation. Image provided)

FMI: www.airnav.com/airport/KGPC/PDM