Storke Funeral Home Obituaries

David Murrill Swisher, Sr., 93, of Bowling Green passed away on Saturday, May 27, 2023 at Mary Washington Hospital. Or, as he would say, “Ol’ Dave stopped riding today.” His family was there to bid him farewell on his final journey.

A long-time farmer and fixture in Caroline County, Dave was probably best known for riding across the country and around the world on his motorcycle. He amassed more than 1.75 million miles over 45 years. He was the first person to reach one million miles on BMW motorcycles and the BMW high mileage award is named for him. Dave was known by all for his generosity, kindness, and quick wit.

Dave was born in Parsons, West Virginia, the youngest of four children. He owned and operated Fairview Dairy Farm in Ladysmith for more than 40 years. There, he raised ten children and instilled in them a strong work ethic and sense of community. He helped build the current Wright’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Ladysmith and advocated for those without a voice in his community.  Dave loved to travel, meet new people, and see the world. In addition to traveling to all 50 states, Canada, and Mexico, Dave toured Europe in 1973 with his longtime friend and fellow motorcycle rider, Milton Hall.

Dave was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Mary Ellen, and his oldest son, Kenneth.  He is survived by children Diane Jones (Alvin), Betsy Carter (Billy), Catherine Pollard (Jerry), Kevin Swisher (Cathy), Keith Swisher (Lorraine), David Swisher, Jr., Mary Beth Geil (Gary), Edgar Cahoon (Becky), and James Swisher (Jennifer); 16 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and a large extended family.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Storke Funeral Home in Bowling Green. The family will receive friends on Friday, June 2 from 6-8 PM at Storke Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 3 at 11 AM at Wright’s Chapel in Ladysmith, with interment to follow at Wright’s Chapel Cemetery. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, please make a loving donation to your favorite charity in David’s name.