May 1, 1933 �" June 20, 2012
Boyd Swartz, founder of the Castro Village Wine Company and wine extraordinaire, died suddenly on June 20. He was 79.
Mr. Swartz, a resident of San Francisco for 47 years, was a fixture in the Castro district as proprietor of the Castro Village Wine Company for 34 years. He is credited for helping to sustain the diversity of community for the past four decades. Mayor Ed Lee proclaimed May 12 as Castro Village Wine Company Day in San Francisco for its contributions to the neighborhood. Mr. Swartz sold the company in 2011.
Mr. Swartz, a travel enthusiast, recently returned from a two-week European trip with his life partner, Joe Chavez.
Mr. Swartz was previously employed by the U.S. government as an attorney for the health and welfare department in Washington, D.C., and was transferred to manage the San Francisco office in 1965.
Mr. Swartz is survived by Mr. Chavez, his life partner of 45 years; his loving sister Netta Jean Pape, and niece Janiene, both of Titusville, Florida; and many close friends.
The family has asked that donations be made to Project Open Hand in San Francisco.
A memorial service is being planned for a later date.