Rickard G Swanson

Rickard Gustav Swanson was born in Torsby, Värmland, Sweden, on November 22, 1932, to Ellen Naemi Larsson and Swan Gustav Swanson. At just nine months old, he immigrated with his parents to the United States, settling in the Milltown-Bonner area.    After graduating high school, Rick proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955.  While stationed in Germany, he had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe and return to his birthplace in Sweden, where he visited many relatives. Following his military service, Rick returned to Missoula and attended the University of Montana, where he met the love of his life, Patricia Cameron. The two married in 1962 and built a loving family together, welcoming son Bruce and daughter Christi. Rick and Pat were deeply involved in their community and church, Immanuel Lutheran Church, and in the Masonic family organizations. Proud of his Swedish heritage, he was also a 75-year member of VASA Tegner Lodge #223, a fraternal organization for Swedish immigrants and their descendants. Rick worked for Anaconda, U.S. Plywood, and Champion International in Bonner, where he served as warehouse foreman until his retirement. Never one to sit still, and always a tinkerer at heart, he later worked part-time for Montana Ace Hardware for more than ten years. He especially enjoyed helping customers with gardening projects and home repairs. Rick and Pat loved traveling the country together, spending winter weeks in the South and making treasured trips to visit their grandchildren in Belgrade. In his later years, one of Rick’s greatest joys was welcoming his great-granddaughter, Celia, into his arms each morning.  He delighted in teaching her to clap and eagerly anticipated watching her take her first independent steps. Rick’s smile was infectious, and there was always a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. He took immense pride in his garden and yard, lovingly tending his lawn, flowerbeds and vegetables with meticulous care. He will be remembered for his warmth, humor, kindness, and deep devotion to family and friends. Rick is survived by his loving wife of nearly 64 years, Pat; his children, Bruce and Christi; grandchildren Marcus and Ellen; great-granddaughter Celia; cousin Carl Larson (Nancy) of Chicago; many cousins in both the United States and Sweden; and a wide circle of dear friends, including the group who gathered every Tuesday for coffee at the Bonner History Museum to share stories and preserve the history of their beloved Bonner. Rick’s life will be celebrated at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Saturday, June 20th at 10AM with a reception at the church to follow the service.  Everyone is welcome to attend.  His ashes will be laid to rest at the Missoula Veteran’s Cemetery following the service and reception.