James A. Swyndro, age 79, of Manhattan passed away at his home on Sunday, February 4, 2024. Survived by his son Brian Swyndro, his sister Jane Swyndro, his niece Heidi (Wayne) Swyndro, his sister-in-law Karen Swyndro and his faithful canine companion "Katy". Preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Margaret (nee O'Connell) Swyndro, his wife Pamela (nee Seabert) Swyndro (2022) and his brother Daniel Swyndro. Jim and Pam were grade school sweethearts. Jim was a graduate of Dwight High School and Northern Illinois University. He was drafted and served his country with the U.S. Army during Vietnam. He married the love of his life Pamela in 1966. Jim was a member of Manhattan United Methodist Church, he volunteered at Operation Care Package and the Manhattan Food Pantry along with Pam for many years. He enjoyed traveling, hiking, and backpacking. He appreciated the outdoors and has been to Yellowstone, the Appalachian Trail, the California Pacific Crest Trail and he also biked extensively on the Katy Trail in Missouri. Jim was an active community member; he was proud to serve as a Fire Commissioner on the Manhattan Fire Department for the past 20 years and served until his passing. Jim left an impact on those he met throughout his life and will be dearly missed. Visitation for Jim will take place on Monday, February 12, 2024 from 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. at Forysthe Gould Funeral Home. Funeral service will take place the same evening at 7:00 P.M. Private inurnment will take place Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.