Raymond E. Swanson, 78, of Michigan City, IN, died unexpectedly at 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, 2013, at Franciscan St. Anthony Health, Michigan City.
He was born May 19, 1935, in Michigan City to Paul and Florence (Vermilyer) Swanson.
Raymond was an independent business owner; he owned P&R Distributors for 20 years and owned Swanson Carry-Out for 10 years. Raymond honorably served in the Army Reserves for six years. He was a member of LaPorte PNA, FOP Dunes Lodge 75, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 23 of Michigan City, Polish Falcons of LaPorte, and Fish and Game Club, where he formerly served as second vice president. Raymond loved going to auctions and restoring classic antique cars. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and especially his bluegrass music. Raymond was a loving father, grandfather, brother and a friend to many. He enjoyed life to the fullest. Ray will be sadly missed.
Surviving are one daughter, Lynn Swanson of LaPorte; one son, Charles Swanson of Michigan City; three stepchildren, Bill (Lucy) Thompson of Michigan City, Isabelle (Jim) Grzesk of LaPorte and Laurie (Larry) Clemons of Michigan City; one sister, Nancy (William) McIntyre of Trail Creek, IN; nine grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; one niece; one nephew; and his loving companion, Patricia Steinke of Michigan City.
Preceding him in death were his parents; former wife, Peggy Swanson; and one son, Brian Swanson.
A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, at Lakeview Funeral Home and Crematory, LaPorte, with Pastor Jim Bouslog officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday from 3 p.m. until the service.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Lakeview Funeral Home, 247 W. Johnson Rd., LaPorte, IN 46350.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP, as well as at www.LakeviewFHC.com.