Christopher “Chris” L. Sweitzer, 62, known lovingly as Boo of Shannon, passed away on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at Mercy Hospital, Rockford, IL. He was born on May 20, 1964, in Savanna, to Larry and Alice (Willstead) Sweitzer. He attended Stockton High School. Chris grew up on a farm in rural Mt. Carroll's “Skunk Hollow” area, His father and grandfather passed on many survival and mechanical skills. Chris was gifted in mechanics, construction, and was respected as a “guy who could fix anything.” He was also known for his mischievous ways and wild antics. Chris, his brothers Shawn, Brandy, along with cousins Charlie and Jeff were a rough and tumble group, with antics like a game of shooting each other with BB guns.

Chris had various jobs, worked years for Lowe Concrete, tried several factory jobs, and found out he had to be his own boss, work outside and have lots of challenges and variety, Chris spent most of the past 3 decades making a living scrapping metal and doing salvage endeavors. He enjoyed working on his home, mechanical projects, and gardening. Unfortunately, his declining health over the past few years made those joys more challenging.

He was a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, Lori, daughters Elizabeth (Alan) Getty of Loves Park, IL, Rachel Sweitzer of Freeport, son Andrew Sweitzer of Shannon, and daughter Breanna Sweitzer of Lanark. Grandchildren, Natalie Parrott, Isabelle Parrott, grandson Jason Getty. And step grandchildren Rebekah Vock, Elise Vock, Angel Dyson, Aidyn Getty, Greyson Getty, Navaeh Hill, Isaac Hill and Colby Hill. And a step-great-granddaughter Carissa Vock. Sister Margie Hartman of Pecatonica and brother Brandy Sweitzer (Melissa Blazek) of Lanark. Step-son Justin Dyson of Bremerton, WA, step-daughter Josianna Hill of Savanna, step-son Jesse Dyson of Chicago, step-son Eric Langarica of Freeport. Numerous nieces and nephews.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, brother Shawn, and an infant daughter, Essie. At his request, Chris has been cremated. A celebration of life service will be held next year, time/place to be determined.