Guy Swanson

Edward "Guy" Swanson, 76, of Charlevoix, died May 20, 2015. "Mighty Good" was one of Guy's favorite sayings, and reflected how he filled his life with positivity. No matter the meal or situation, he usually had a smile on his face while making a joke. He had a heart of gold and kindness. Guy had a way of making everyone he knew feel completely accepted and unconditionally loved. His infectious energy was one to admire, and his humble attitude spread to all of those around him. Guy certainly went through some great times, tough times and adventurous times during his life. He was born in Charlevoix July 7, 1938, and lived here most his life, except for a few years when he traveled by train hopping like a "hobo" out to California. It was there that he helped purchase a boat they named "The Black Douglas" and traveled from California to the Cayman Islands where he lived for 5 years. When he returned to Charlevoix he was employed with Freedman/Harbor Industries for 35 years and retired from there in 2008. Something that kept his spirits high was his love for the outdoors. He frequently took long biking trips to and through the Upper Peninsula; he loved to walk miles and miles, and loved working out by the saw mill or in the woods. Guy also enjoyed going out to eat and especially having breakfast with family members and coffee with the boys. His other interests included the newspaper comics, reading about space and cheating at cards. Guy is survived by siblings Jean Swanson of Charlevoix, Sharon & Tom Davis of Canadian Lakes, and Carl and Jamie Swanson of Middleville; nieces and nephews, Duane and Shelia Davis of Charlevoix, Adam and Joan of Wayland, Hanz and Shelley Davis of Traverse City, Christine Davis of Kentwood, Brian and Paula Swanson of Panama City, Fla., Brandy Swanson and fiancé© Dan of Grand Rapids, and Michael, Josh and Alisa Swanson of Middleville; great-nieces and nephews, Ashley, Eric, Huston, Karleigh, KayLee, Hannah, Michael, Leah, Nathan, Dakota, Katie and Ben; great-niece and nephew, Isabelle and Chase. Guy was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Swanson; parents, Edward and Lauretta (Stutzman) Swanson; sister, Roberta Wegner; great-niece, Samantha Davis. Visitation with the family will be held Tuesday, May 26th at the Community Reformed Church in Charlevoix from 2:00 to 4:00 pm with a Celebration of Life service immediately following at the church. Burial will take place in the Barnard Cemetery at 11 am, Friday June 12. In lieu of flowers please make financial contributions to: Front Porch Ministries: Wish List Fund, 9235 Main, Ellsworth, MI 49729.