James Jay Swanson, “The Big Swede”, passed away unexpectedly following surgery on Monday, October 4, 2021 at ThedaCare Appleton with his family by his side.
Jim was born on December 29, 1935 in Waukegan, IL to the late Harold and Beulah (Wood) Swanson. He was united in marriage to Jean Brehmer on September 2, 1961 in Readfield, WI. James enlisted in the US Marine Corp. following high school. He loved all sports, especially golf and had four holes in one during his life. James worked at S.C. Shannon in Appleton for many years. Jim’s sense of humor was always present. His quick wit, strong convictions and vast knowledge of all things sports related, will live on with those who knew and loved him. In recent years Jim enjoyed listening to country music and watching Westerns. No matter what he was doing or where he was going, Jim always was sharply dressed.
Jim is survived by his wife, Jean; children, Lea (John) Jackman and Chad (Stefanie) Swanson; grandchildren, Austin Jackman, Sawyer Jackman, Liliana Swanson and Erik James Swanson and his half-brother, Jerry Rasmussen, Jim was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Arthur and Lawrence and step-mother, Hattie Baker.
The funeral for Jim will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 11, 2021 at Emanuel Lutheran Church in New London with Rev. Marcus Schulz officiating. The visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be in Floral Hill Cemetery, New London. Full military honors will be held at the church. Please consider wearing masks and practice social distancing to keep everyone safe. Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London is serving the family. www.clinehansonfuneralhome.com