April 5, 1944 - January 25, 2019
Harold Kenneth Swanson of Abbotsford, born April 5, 1944 in Prince Albert, SK, left to be with his Lord on January 25, 2019, age 74. He leaves behind his wife Shirley, sons Jim (Lori, children Zachary and Rachel) and Ken (Karen, children Shelby and Amanda), along with extended family in Todd Carroll (Tammy, children Patrick and Thomas) and Cheryl Carroll (children Luca and Francesca). He is predeceased by his father Philip, mother Linda, brother David and brother-in-law Ken Fletcher. Left to mourn are sister Marilyn Fletcher and brothers Robert (Sydney), Glenn and Lyle (Joann), and sister-in-law Vreny, along with numerous nieces and nephews and good friends.
The family base was Winfield, BC, and he was a graduate of George Elliot SS. He is now rejoicing in Heaven with his Mom, Dad, grandparents, brother, brother-in-law, and cherished Aunts Vi, Lil and Esther, and Uncle Earl. 'Swanny' loved his sons and grandchildren and was successful in sales roles, including real estate, autos and with Scripture Press, and served as a Commissionaire. He was active in a number of churches and known for his love of music, including with the Abbotsford Male Chorus, and fishing, taking advantage of years spent living in Quesnel, Grand Forks, Saskatoon and Kelowna. His love of sports included coaching, playing, administrating and officiating, and he was one of the best baseball umpires in BC for many years.
No funeral will be held per his wishes. Family will gather to remember him at a graveside service on February 8, where he will be interred at Mountain View Cemetery in Vancouver next to his father. Reception to follow for family and close friends.
The family thanks the doctors and nurses of hospitals in Abbotsford and New Westminster, including the ICU department at Royal Columbian, along with all those who took part in his care as he struggled the last few years. Chances are, he's already started a quartet on high.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation in his name.