HARBESON - Maria M. Swaringen passed away on Mon., Nov. 9, 2015 at her home. She was born in Germany, lived through World War II, completed her education, worked as a sales clerk, and later as a secretary for the German Air Force, until the age of 23. She married Albert Swaringen in 1959 and they moved to the United States the same year. Maria's greatest wish and concern throughout her life was always for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to become good and honest citizens, and to be saved and live a Christian life. She wanted them to learn the enjoyment of helping others, and by doing so, helping themselves, a true gift from God, many people don't know or understand. She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert. Maria is survived by her daughter, Donna Wade; her son, Karlheinz A. Swaringen and his wife Tammy; four grandchildren, Haley and Gene Loving, Amy Thurston and Kyle T. Swaringen; five great-grandchildren, Alexis Collier, Elisha Coven Graves, Dwayne Andrew, Damyin Alexander Thurston and Hannah Sofia Loving. A visitation will be held Mon., Nov. 16, 2015 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Rd, Millsboro, DE 19966, followed by the funeral service at 12:30 p.m. at the New Life Bible Fellowship Church, 24771 Cannon Rd, Millsboro, DE 19966. Interment will be in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com