William "Bill" Gene Swaim

March 4, 1949 – September 22, 2025, age 76, of Bakersfield, California was embraced in the loving arms of Yahweh unexpectedly and suddenly at home. Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather “papa”, uncle, “Boss-man” to some, God-fearing, and a friend to all he met. He leaves behind the love of his life and best friend of over 57 years, Sherrie Swaim and their 3 sons and family. Bill and Sherrie started Swaim & Sons Machine Shop in 1979 and his passion for manufacturing ignited and continually flourished. He enjoyed working side by side with the Kern County oilfield community, he will be deeply missed by many. Another passion of his was the Kern County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse and all of the lifelong friends he made there. He took great pleasure in all of their dinners, fund raising events, and service to our community. He is survived by his sons Nick Swaim, wife Natalie Swaim, Taylor Swaim, wife Shannon Swaim, Lance Swaim, wife Melanie Swaim, grandchildren Jacqueline Poe, Jackson Swaim, Cassidy Ryder, Madison Macias, Ryan Swaim, and Sara Swaim, great-grandchildren Penny, Wesley, Saige, Graylee, Hayes, and Talan, and many more beloved family members. Bill has joined his brother Sonny Swaim, father Frank Swaim, mother Geraldine Swaim, and sister Francis Beirne. He will be deeply and greatly missed but we have peace knowing until we see him again he is up in Heaven riding horses, finding all the best camping spots, and hunting for the biggest buffalo.