Obituary of Gary Swendsen

Gary Swendsen, 63, of Milanville died Monday, May 9, 2016 at home after a long courageous battle against cancer. He was surrounded by the quiet peace and comfort of his loving family. Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Susan LaTourette Swendsen in 1994. Gary was born March 19, 1953 in Sussex, NJ. He was the son of Alberta (Dunn) Swendsen of Calkins, and the late William Swendsen. Gary graduated from Damascus High School, Class of 1972. While in school, he was a member of Future Farmers of America and the Calkins 4-H Club. He began farming in his youth and was involved in dairy and beef operations for many years. Gary was a member of the Ace Snowmobile Club and the Boyd's Mills Hunting Club. He was a former member of Wayne County Farm Bureau. Gary loved farming; he also enjoyed hunting and fishing, and was an avid gun collector. Gary attended and supported the Hawley United Methodist Church where he was always willing to help with projects and events. Gary was a gentleman; he was well respected by many, and he will be deeply missed. More than anything, he will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather. He is also survived by his friend and companion, Linda Bancroft; two daughters: Brenda Kosciuk and her husband Joseph of Lake Ariel, and Jennifer Swendsen of Calkins and her companion Greg Salvatore; two granddaughters: Julia and Amelia Kosciuk; a brother: Harvey Swendsen and his wife Carla of Calkins; a sister: Lori Heckman and her husband Perry of Mohrsville, PA; two sisters-in-law: Cindy Shearer-Swendsen of Cooperstown, PA, and Trudy Vail Swendsen of Starrucca; and several nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by four brothers: Richard Swendsen, Lloyd Swendsen, Dale Swendsen, and Fred Swendsen. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, May 13 at 11:00 A.M. at the Hawley United Methodist Church, 315 Church Street, Hawley, PA 18428. Friends may visit on Thursday, May 12 from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the Hawley United Methodist Church, 315 Church Street, Hawley, PA 18428. Private interment will be in the Calkins Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hawley United Methodist Church or the Calkins Cemetery Association. Arrangements are attended by the Arthur A. Bryant Funeral Home, 1228 North Main Street, Honesdale, PA 18431. www.bryantfuneralhome.com .