David Anthony Swan

Dave was born on June 2, 1932, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, to parents Alvin Albert Swan and Milly Edith (Baker) Swan. As the oldest of four children, he grew up alongside his siblings, Dennis, John, and Priscilla.

Following high school, Dave proudly served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Germany during the Korean War. Upon his honorable discharge, he pursued his passion for education, earning a master's degree from St. Norbert’s College in Wisconsin. Dave dedicated his career to the Madison School District, teaching outdoor education and biology at the high school and middle school levels, and working as a Driver’s Education instructor.

Dave met his bride, Gail Gitzinger, at the Jolly Green Giant Canning Factory, where Gail was a quality taster at the plant. That chance meeting led to a lifelong love; the couple was married on August 29, 1959, celebrating 66 years of devoted marriage and together they welcomed five beautiful children: Diane, Mark, Sara, Steven, and Barbara.

Dave and Gail were natural hosts who enjoyed entertaining friends with numerous dinner parties, taking cruises, traveling, and attending the theatre. A true Wisconsinite, Dave was a huge sports fan, deeply devoted to the Badgers and the Green Bay Packers. He loved golfing, bowling, tuning in to Big Band and Easy Listening Music, watching classic westerns, and spending time fishing. His happy place was the house on Silver Lake in Wautoma, Wisconsin. An avid player, he enjoyed frequenting casinos for the slot machines and was always happy to be dealt into a card game—from cribbage and Euchre to Sheepshead and Poker. Bingo became a passion for him later in life and spaghetti was one of his all-time favorite meals. He spent many hours doing crossword puzzles and was known for introducing himself as the "Ol' Buffalo," always ready with a joke and a cocktail!

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Milly, and his brothers, Dennis and John.

He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Gail; his children, Diane (David) Thomason, Mark (Vicki) Swan, Sara Swan Brayton, Steven (Rebecca) Swan, and Barbara Swan; his sister, Priscilla; his 7 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Per Dave’s request, a Celebration of Life service is scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2025 at Thompson Funeral Home in Goodyear, AZ at 11 a.m. A gathering of family and friends will be hosted afterwards to share further memories at a site yet to be determined. If you are able to attend, please join us in celebrating this man’s incredible life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ovation Hospice, 410 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 1000, Tempe, AZ 85288.

Heartfelt thanks to Corina and her team for all the love and care given to this amazing man. Also, special thanks to The Groves Assisted Living community for all their care and continued support.