James “Jim” Robert Swanson Sr., 72, passed away Saturday, Jan. 30, 2016, at Cox Hospital in Springfield.
He was born July 11, 1943, in Patxon, Ill., son of Oscar and Lois Swick Swanson. He and Mary Newell were married Oct. 23, 1963, in Michigan.
He grew up in Illinois with his brother and sisters. In 1973, he and his wife, Mary, moved to Missouri.
His occupations ranged from farmer and truck driver to restaurant owner and a mechanic. He enjoyed visiting and talking with his friends and family at local restaurants.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Marion Zalaker and Lois Mae Rieheman; a brother, Ernie Swanson; a son Charles Swanson; and a granddaughter.
Survivors include his wife, Mary; five children, James Jr. of Conroe, Texas, Eric of Rogers, Ark., Jennifer of Houston and Carl of St. James and Carissa of Moberly; 19 grandchildren; five great- grandchildren; and a host of family members and friends.
Services are 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 5, at Evans Funeral Home. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 4 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Swanson Family Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Swanson Family Cemetery, in lieu of flowers. Online condolences may be made at www.evansfh.com.
