James Swanson

James Thomas Swanson’s spirit exited this life January 5th, 2025, at the age of 81. James entered this world March 18, 1943, to parents LeRoy and Sophia Swanson. He grew up in LaPorte, Indiana with his parents and four siblings Patrica, Bob, Rich, and Lee.

James is survived by his son Daniel Swanson, his wife Rachel Swanson, Grand Daughter Jessica Pettit and her Husband Evan Pettit, Grandson Josh Swanson, Grandson Heath Swanson, and many beloved friends.

At a young age, James joined the National Guard. Throughout his life he worked a few different occupations including time as a police officer. He ended up living out his dream as a farmer and this was by far his favorite occupation.

James, known as “Grandpa Jim,” loved life on the farm. Some of Grandpa Jim’s pastimes included hunting, fishing, and watching westerns. Anyone who knew Grandpa Jim knew that his specialty was fried fish. He loved to catch it and he could sure cook it! If Grandpa Jim was not hunting or fishing in his past time, he was gardening. He was born with a green thumb and could grow just about anything.

Grandpa Jim’s wishes were to be cremated and have his ashes spread by his family at the place he loved most the family farm.

He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

“Death is not the ending, but a symbol of movement along the path upon which we are all traveling. As it may be painful to lose contact with the physical aspect of ones we love, the spirit can never be lost. We have been and always will be a part of each other”

-John Denver-