Wayne H. Swisloski, Master Sergeant, USAF (Ret), 83, of North Utica, passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at Wynn Hospital, with his loving family by his side.

     Wayne was born in Utica on December 20, 1942, the son of Hank and Gertrude (Riddell) Swisloski. He was raised in Utica and attended Utica Free Academy. Wayne proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1962 until his honorable discharge in 1982. During his illustrious military career, he was stationed at numerous bases around the world and retired with the rank of Master Sergeant. Following his military service, he continued his career with the United States Postal Service in Rome.

     On November 27, 1971, Wayne was united in marriage to Barbara J. Holdridge at St. Mark’s Church in North Utica.

     Wayne was a member of the VFW Malsan Jones Post 7393 in New York Mills and the American Legion Post 1376 in New Hartford. An avid golf enthusiast, he was a member of Hidden Valley Golf Course, where he enjoyed spending time on the course with his buddies—often accompanied by a cold beer or two. Wayne was of the Catholic faith.

     Mr. Swisloski is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his daughter, Karen (Robert) Blackshear of Utica; his son, Mike Swisloski, Sr. of Utica; and four cherished grandchildren, Alexandra, Breyonna, Michael, Jr., and Isabelle. He is also survived by five adored great-grandchildren; his brother, Glenn (Kay) Swisloski of Georgia; and his sister-in-law, Cynthia (Charles) Aldi of Deerfield, along with several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Hank and Gertrude Swisloski; his great-grandson, Micah; and his sister-in-law, Geri (Larry) Getz.

   Visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Road, North Utica. A funeral service will follow at 4:00 PM at the conclusion of visitation. Wayne will be laid to rest with full military honors at West Schuyler Cemetery in the spring.

     Those wishing to honor Wayne’s memory are kindly asked to consider making a donation to the Central New York Veteran’s Outreach Center, 726 Washington Street, Utica, NY 13502. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.