Jerrold David ("Jerry or J.D.") Swanson, 76, of Woodstock, VT passed away peacefully at home with his daughter by his side on the morning of Friday, November 13, 2015. A morning that blessed his and his family's home with a vibrant rainbow lasting hours over the fields Jerry pridefully mowed and maintained for many years and celebrating his freedom from ALS.
Born on April 19, 1939 in Flint, Michigan to Frank and Muriel Irene ("Dolly") Swanson, Jerry grew up in Corunna, Michigan where he trained his horses in his youth, was loved by family and friends for his warm heart and quick wit, and nicknamed, "Butchy." His free spirit nurtured a love for fine cars and new adventures, including a year at the University of Mexico. Following his education, he spent time at his family's South Florida home in the 1950's before serving in the Armed Forces of the United States of America stationed in Korea. Upon completing a three year tour, he returned home to Michigan and joined his father at the helm of the family business, Swanson Manufacturing. Years later he moved with his wife and daughter to Fort Lauderdale, FL where he worked with his brother and enjoyed all Florida offered. He was an accomplished sailor, hard working, fun loving, and committed father.
He is forever embedded in our hearts and lovingly survived by his daughter, Tricia Swanson Carnehammar and son-in-law, Roger Carnehammar; his grandchildren Lars Cody Carnehammar, Lars Dylan Thomas Carnehammar, Mark Jerrold Swanson van der Schoot, Alexandra Chloe Carnehammar, and Max Swanson van der Schoot (all of Woodstock, VT); sibling Joan Cater of Traverse City, MI; brother-in-law Robert A. Selleck of Houghton Lake, MI; sister-in-law Faith Swanson of Palm Beach Gardens, FL; many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Jerry is reunited in death with his father Frank, mother Dolly, sister Patricia Swanson, sister Nancy K. Selleck and brother F. Robert Swanson.
He will be remembered for his exceptional charm, his laughter and humor, his "Jerry- isms," his commitment and love to and for his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. He will be dearly missed whether playing board games, watching sports, reading to the children, chauffeuring, and overall, his unwavering presence at the center of his family.
A Celebration of Jerry's Life will be held next summer at home in Woodstock, VT. A mass will be dedicated in his honor Saturday, January 2, 2016, 6:00pm at Our Lady of The Snows, Woodstock, VT. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.cabotfh.com.