Raymond D. Schwertfeger, 82, a resident of the Betsy Ross Nursing Home, formerly of Utica, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at the home. Raymond was born in Utica on June 25, 1927, the son of Ernest and Florence (Heimhilger) Schwertfeger. He was raised and educated locally. In 1944, Raymond married Josephine "Josie" Alkinson in Alabama. Josie passed away in 1978. Later that year, Raymond left to serve in the US Army during World War II. Upon his return in 1946, Raymond was employed at Bonite Fibers in Utica. He later went to work for the Utica Club Brewery. Raymond enjoyed fishing and was an avid stamp and coin collector. He was also a member of the West Utica Senior Center. Raymond was of the Protestant faith. Raymond is survived by two daughters, Helen Lasher, Utica, Valentia Mendoza, Rome; fifteen grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Besides his wife, Raymond is predeceased by his son Donald, his brother, Robert, and by three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Mr. Schwertfeger's funeral service will be held on Friday, July 3, 2009 at 11:00 am at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica, with military honors. Interment in Crown Hill Memorial Park, Kirkland, will take place at the convenience of the family. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home Friday morning, 9 - 11 am, prior to the funeral service. Those wishing may donate to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. in Raymond's memory.