Dennis C. Swanson

Dennis was born February 21, 1945 in Escanaba. He graduated in 1963 Escanaba Area High School where he gained the nickname “diver” during his years playing football and recovering fumbles. He attended Stout State College for two years before enlisting into the United States Army. Dennis spent two years in Germany. After his honorable discharge, he went back to college and graduated from Northern Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in science technology and education.

Dennis was employed at Harnischfeger, Engineered Machined Products, Hannaville School District, along with many other places. He was a member of the Bethany Lutheran Church in Perkins, Mich. Even though he was strong willed and stubborn at times, he had an enormous heart and lively sense of humor. He was generous, caring, and brave. He was clever and filled to the brim with knowledge gained through all of his life experiences. He could fix or build anything and willingly gave his time and talents to anyone that asked for his assistance. He helped build a hunting camp on his brother’s property and enjoyed spending time there with family and friends telling stories.

Dennis will be remembered for his best talent of all, with 46 years of experience being Santa. He looked forward to the holiday season all year, carefully planning and making sure he could be Santa in as many events as he could each year. His stories captured the hearts and curiosity of countless children, both young and old. He always said you were never too old to sit on Santa’s lap and believe in the magic of Christmas.

He will be remembered for all the heart he shared with his friends and family. He truly loved each of them — and if you knew him, you knew it. When his time came, he carried himself with dignity, strength, and was full of love. He will be missed dearly.

As he said: Always believe, if only in your heart.

Dennis is survived by: children, Bert Swanson of Escanaba, Mich., Jodi (special friend: Truman) Jicha of Green Bay, Wis.; brother, Roger Swanson of Stephenson, Mich.; sister, Judy Nelson of Gladstone, Mich.; two grandchildren, Tyler and Nathan Jicha; former wife, Sherri Swanson of Escanaba, Mich. and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Dennis is preceded in death by: sister, Lorretta “Lollie” Scheiber; brothers, Larry and Don Swanson.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, November 25, from noon until 3 p.m. at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Funeral services will follow visiting hours at 3 p.m. at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Military honors will be presented at the conclusion of the funeral service with a 21 gun salute to honor Dennis. A luncheon will follow at the AMVets in Escanaba from 4 until 6 p.m. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Swanson family. Please visit www.skradskifuneralhomes.com to offer an online message of sympathy to the family.