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Swanson accomplished much in his life. As a young soldier of 20, he stormed upon Utah Beach, in Normandy, France on D-Day, June 6, 1944, fought in the Battle of the Bulge, and received commendations for his efforts in liberating the port of Antwerp. He returned home and married Jean Burke, with whom he enjoyed 58 of marriage. Together they raised two children.
Swanson retired from a distinguished career with N.Y. Telephone and AT&T, where he worked 33 years without taking a single sick day.
He was honored as a 33rd degree Mason in the Mount Kisco Lodge 708 F&AM. A lifelong hobbyist and learner, he taught himself Morse code, television repair (when they had tubes); small engine repair and rebuilding; and was a computer and Photoshop enthusiast. He learned to draw, paint and won several awards at art shows throughout New York and Florida.
At 78, he sought to realize a dream he had held since World War II and learned to fly. He soloed, earned his pilot’s license, and spent many afternoons flying over Florida.
He is survived by his wife; daughter, Cheryl Mitchell; son and daughter-in-law, Richard D. and Kristin; sister, Eleanor Gill, and grandson, Greg Mitchell.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Living Lord Lutheran Church, 2725 58th Ave., Vero Beach, Fla., 32966.
For online condolences, visit http://www.dignitymemorial.com/aycock-funeral-home-hillcrest/en-us/index.page
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