Richard Swanson

Richard Swanson, of Manistique, a lifelong Catholic and proud veteran, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2021, at the young age of 84.

Richard was born on October 24, 1936 in Manistique to the late Reuben and Ellen (Minor) Swanson.

As a young man growing up in Manistique, Richard used to love working as a Handyman, performing various landscape duties and repairing fishing gear and lawn chairs around summer resorts. After high school, Richard joined the United States Navy and served for nearly four years, working his way up to Seaman aboard the USS Forrestal before being honorably discharged. After the Navy, Richard then moved to California and began working as a Carpenter. Shortly thereafter, Richard met and then eventually married the love of his life, Maria de Estrada, on December 12, 1970 in Reno Nevada.

After many years out in California, Richard finally retired and moved back to his hometown of Manistique. In his retired years, Richard loved to spend time landscaping his home and doing various woodworking tasks. He and his wife also travelled around with their camper during the summer months and would fly out to Mexico and spend time with their family out there during the winter months.

Richard was always full of life and had an adoration for his wife, family, and friends. Those who got to really know Richard, knew him as a man who respected those around him and if someone had asked him for help in a time of need, he was always there to help them out and offer sound advice. Richard will be truly missed, but we can all take comfort in knowing that he is once again together with his wife, singing mariachi music while they dance together amongst the stars in Heaven.

Richard is survived by his siblings, Raymond (Deanna) Swanson, and Carol Walton; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and an extended family of relations and friends.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Maria; and brothers Kenneth and Wendell.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Monday, July 5, 2021 St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Manistique. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., Monday, with Father Benedetto Paris officiating. Inurnment will take place at St. Anarco Catholic Church in Guadalajara, Mexico. The family is grateful for the dedicated staff at the Mission Point Nursing Center of Ishpeming for the best care, comfort, and support they provided Richard. 

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