Gerald Jerry O. Swanson

Gerald, who went by “Jerry”, was born in Rice Lake, Wisconsin on November 22, 1928.

His family moved to Vancouver when he was in high school, and he remained in the area the rest of his life. Jerry graduated from Vancouver High School in 1947.

Jerry married Patricia Stewart in January 1948, and they began a long and happy union that was only ended by his passing.

Jerry enlisted in the Unites States Navy in November 1951, and was honorably discharged in November 1955. He served during the Korean conflict, and saw many ports in the Pacific Ocean.

Jerry attended First United Methodist Church in Vancouver, and volunteered as an usher and greeter for over 45 years.

He began working at Alcoa Aluminum in 1945, but the majority of his career was spent working for Pacific Northwest Bell, from where he retired in 1987, after almost 40 years. Upon retirement, he still kept his ties to the community by donating time through First United Methodist Church sponsored activities such as feeding the less fortunate at Vancouver’s Share House and ringing Christmas bells for the Salvation Army.

Jerry loved spending time with his family and friends, coaching little league baseball games when his sons were younger, working outside in his garden and workshop, playing cards with lifelong friends, and especially telling a good joke to make people laugh.

Jerry was preceded in death by a son and daughter.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia of 62 years, his sons Jack of La Center, Washington, and Richard of Lake Oswego, Oregon, two brothers, Bob and Dean and their families, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A graveside service for family will be held at Willamette National Cemetary, and a Memorial Service for family and friends will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the American Cancer Society or Hospice Southwest at SW Washington Medical Center.

Arrangements under the direction of Vancouver Funeral Chapel, Vancouver, WA.