Howard Andrew Swanson

On New Year’s Day, Howard Andrew Swanson lost his courageous battle against cancer at the age of 79.

He was born in Tacoma, Wash., June 3, 1929, to Howard and Thelma Swanson. Howard was a printer by trade, a member of the Northwest Blacksmith Association and the Nautical Historical Society, Save Our Ships. He was a man who lived and enjoyed live to its fullest. He especially enjoyed music, kayaking, sailing, woodworking, blacksmithing, flying and gardening. Howard was a creative man who could make art and find the beauty in the most ordinary things. He was a great provider for his family and a hero to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Jensen, father, Howard Swanson, and his beloved first son, Cecil Scott Swanson.

He is survived by his brothers, Alfred James Monroe and Bill Monroe, wife, Lillian Swanson, second born son, Steven Howard Swanson and wife Helen Swanson, daughter, Sue Ellen Harrison, Robert Harrison and Lena Swanson. Survived also by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren Steven Swanson Jr., Jennifer Swanson, David Swanson, Brent Harrison, April Swanson, Brian Harrison, Daina Harrison, Synitha Swanson, Cecilia Swanson-Martinez and Gabriella Martinez.

Very special thanks to friends, Cliff Guffy and family for all their support.

Howard Swanson will be dearly missed and held the hearts of his family, friends and loved ones. May we live by his example and always remember his love of life.

Services to be announced at a later date.