John was born on May 18, 1971, in Seattle and grew up in Bellevue’s Woodridge neighborhood. He attended Eastside Catholic School and graduated from Seattle University with a degree in fine arts.
John will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for how he lived it. He quietly carried challenges many did not see with grace, resilience, and a steady, good nature.
He is survived by his sister, Elizabeth Jackman; his brother, Arthur Swanson; and his nieces and nephew. He was preceded in death by his mother, Maria Mercedes Swanson, and his father, Stanley Curtis Swanson.
A funeral Mass was held on May 1, 2026, at St. Ignatius Chapel at Seattle University.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to the Myotonic Dystrophy Association (https://myotonic.org/).
John will be remembered as a good man, a devoted son, and a loving brother.
