Jerry Arthur Swanson, 77, of Independence, MO passed away June 24, 2018. Funeral Service 12:30pm Saturday, June 30th at the McGilley & Sheil Chapel, 11924 E. 47th St., KCMO with visitation beginning at 11am. Burial in Mt. Washington Cemetery.
Jerry A Swanson was born February 2, 1941 and died June 24, 2018. He was on this earth for too short of time but he lived every day to the fullest. He was well known for his practical jokes to the point his friends were reluctant to shake his hand for fear they would get shocked!
He leaves a wife, Jan Rowland Swanson, and children, Sharon (Howard) Handler, Kim (Brian) Kanagawa, Angela Sutcliffe and Jessica (Josh) Bradley. Although not related by blood, he was called dad by Terry Sucliffe and Randy Barnett. He will be missed by his siblings, Marcy Swanson Taylor and Eddie Swanson as well as his stepfather, Wayne Oliver. He also leaves grandchildren, Adriane Ritchie, Nicole Ritchie Bridger, and Kehla Wanninger and great grandchildren, Addison Ritchie, Austin Kost, Ashton Kost , Avery Bridger, Carter Wanninger, Brylie Oxley, and Michael Halcomb.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, June and Forest Swanson, stepfather Ralph Swanson, former wife, Theresa Swanson, and his daughter, Kendra Halcomb.
Jerry worked 35 years as a die cutter at Hallmark making the most complicated greeting cards. He was skilled and meticulous in his work. After “retirement,” he began doing custom construction and remodeling, again with great attention to detail. He had a tremendous work ethic and was never happier than when he was doing a job. He loved shooting pool, riding his Harley, boating, and having great laughs with friends (as a result of Coor’s Light). He was unpredictable and kept us all guessing about what he would do next. He kept us on our toes. He also dearly loved the dogs that were part of his life.
This quote by Hunter S. Thompson describes Jerry well:
Life should not be a journey to the grave with intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!
Arr: McGilley & Sheil Chapel, 816-353-6555.
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