Charles Swanson

Born in Marquette, Michigan, to John and Harriet (Doris) Deny Swanson, Charlie lost his mother at the young age of seven. He attended school in Marquette and excelled in sports, playing football and hockey at Graveraet High School, from which he graduated in 1964.

A proud patriot, Charlie joined the United States Navy shortly after graduation and served with distinction in Vietnam, completing three tours. Following his honorable discharge in 1971, he continued his career in the Naval Shipyards as a Master Ship Builder Welder, working in California, Virginia, Scotland, and other international locations.

In 1993, Charlie returned to Marquette and began working at U.P. Home Health and Hospice, where he met the love of his life, Jane. They were married in 1999 and moved to Sun City West, Arizona, in 2002.

Charlie was a passionate golfer, primarily at courses in Sun City West, but also as a member of the prestigious Single Digits league, where he played at numerous TPC courses throughout Arizona. He achieved an impressive eight holes-in-one in his lifetime. A lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Red Wings, Charlie remained a proud Yooper no matter where in the world he lived.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Colleen Michelle Swanson; stepsisters, Cheri Croschere and Cindi Borcherding; half-brothers, Tommy and Steven Swanson; and brother-in-law, Bruce Nyquist.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife of 25 years, Jane (Brunngraeber) Swanson; his sister, Cynthia Nyquist; his brother, Brian (Angela) Swanson; sister-in-law, Kayleen Swanson; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Charlie will be remembered for his quick wit, dry sense of humor, and strong convictions-he did not suffer fools lightly. More than that, he will be remembered for his deep capacity to love and be loved. He was a devoted husband, a loving son and brother, and a loyal friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be greatly missed.

In accordance with his wishes, Charlie will be cremated, and no funeral service will be held.

Those wishing to express condolences may do so at Camino del Sol Funeral Chapel and Cremation Center in Sun City West, Arizona. Memorial donations in Charlie’s honor may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at T2T.org.