Ben was born in Iron Mountain on January 8, 1924, to Gotfred and Esther (Lundberg) Swanson. He graduated from Iron Mountain Senior High School in 1942. A veteran of World War II, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy shortly after graduation. The next three years were spent in the North Atlantic and Europe. After his discharge from the Navy, he continued his education at Michigan State University and later at Northern Michigan University School of Banking, and then began a long career in banking. After working for forty years, he retired as a Vice President with the First National Bank and Trust Company, Michigan Financial Corporation.

Survivors include his wife, Lucille E. (Turri) Swanson, whom he married August 30, 1958; his daughter, Jane E. (Charles) Vercoe of Kingsford; and his grandson and best friend, Benjamin Vercoe. Also surviving are his brother, Ralph G. (Harriet) Swanson of Winchester, WI along with several nieces and nephews.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, his son, Benjamin, Jr. who passed away in 1967; and brother-in-law, Richard N. (Gretchen) Turri of Rochester, MN.

Ben was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church, American Legion Post 44, life member of Marquette Elks Lodge B.P.O.E. 405, life member of Ancient Accepted Order, Scottish Rite, life member of Masonic Lodge #101, life member of the Shriners, and a member of the Royal Order of Jesters Court #180.

Friends may call at Messiah Lutheran Church on Monday, August 3, beginning at 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am. Rev. David Van Kley will officiate. A reception for family and friends will follow in Magnuson Hall. Interment will be made in the Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Messiah Lutheran Church Memorial Fund, 305 W. Magnetic Street, Marquette, MI 49855.

The Swanson-Lundquist Funeral Home is serving the family.

Condolences may be expressed online at swansonlundquistfuneralhome.com