BORN

1930

DIED

2019

Gerald Swanson Obituary

Gerald Swanson, 88, died peacefully at his home in Harlingen, Texas on Tuesday morning, March 12, with family at his side.

A lifelong Silvertonian, Gerald lived life largely, with a ready smile, and a sparkle in his eyes. He was born in Montrose on Oct. 16, 1930, and was deeply involved in Silverton's civic and social fabric throughout his long and lively lifetime. He served as mayor, school board president, and chairman of the San Juan County Republican Party. Alongside his mother Mary, he ran Swanson's Grocery on Blair Street for many years, where he held court at the meat counter.

Gerald was a legendary storyteller and a man of deep faith, who never missed mass if he could help it. He was lucky enough to enjoy two long, loving marriages. He was predeceased by his first wife Stela, who passed away in 1991, and is survived by his second wife of 24 years, Nancy (with whom he ran the Villa Dallavalle Inn), five children, three step-children and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Rosary will be recited at St. Patrick's Church in Silverton at 7 p.m. on June 30, followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. on Monday, July 1 at St. Patrick's Church, with burial at Hillside Cemetery to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in his name to your favorite Silverton organization.

Published by The Durango Herald on Jun. 12, 2019.
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Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Swanson

Not sure what to say?





I just learned of Gerald's passing. He stood in as my godfather when I was baptized at St. Patrick's and I felt he was my true godfather. I loved seeing him in Silverton, as I did love seeing his mother, Mary.
Every now and then I pick up his book and can hardly put it down. He was a great friend to my family the Orellas and the Shirks. Visiting Silverton will not be the same without him.

Eddie Jo Nicholson

September 27, 2019

My Deepest Condolences To Gerald's Family.i Lived In Silverton From 1974-82. Worked At Standard Metals Mine.I Was A Regular Swanson Market Customer And I Always Looked Forward To Seeing Gerald And Conversing With Him About Town Life And Silverton's History, Including His Own Family's Long Storied Colorful Local History. He Always Had A Welcoming Big Smile When He Saw You Walk Through The Door. My Last Visit With Gerald In Silverton Included Him Signing His Book For Me And A Long Meaningful Talk About Our Experiences In The San Juan's. He Will Be Deeply Missed By Everyone Who Was Lucky To Meet Him.

Gary Stasko

August 7, 2019

He was my grandfather's, Clee Robinson's, best friend. Gerald and my grandpa always preached "Education, education, education!" Boy were they right. I grew up going over to Gerald and Nancy's in Silverton every 4th. What a sacred time of year for all of us. Much vino, smiles, and deep connections. He really was a true patriarch.

Amanda Spillman

June 26, 2019

y condolences to the family. Some of my favorite memories of Gerald are when my mother would send me to the Swanson's Market for groceries. When Gerald would see me, the first thing he would do was slice of bologna or cut me a chunk of longhorn cheese. Always one of my favorite treats! Also, how heroic he always looked when I would see him on the fire truck going to a fire, wearing his fireman's hat. Lastly, that I was honored to be an altar server at his wedding at St. Patrick's Church in Silverton. God bless Gerald Swanson. May he Rest in Peace.

RAY Jaramillo

June 16, 2019

My condolences to the Family.
One of my favorite memories of Gerald, and Mary,
is the many times that my mom sent me to Swanson's for groceries, when Gerald would see me, he would always, either give me a slice of bologna, or cut me a small chunk of Longhorn cheese. Always a treat!
One other thing, is that, as an alter server, I served for his wedding, at St. Patrick's church.
Also, how heroic he always looked, aboard the fire truck, in his fireman's hat, on his way to a fire.
I miss you Gerald, and your family. God bless

RAY Jaramillo

June 16, 2019

Janet Swanson

June 16, 2019

Janet Swanson

June 16, 2019

Janet Swanson

June 16, 2019

Janet Swanson

June 16, 2019

RAY Jaramillo

June 16, 2019

Rest in peace my old friend

William Rogers

June 16, 2019

Met Gerald many, many years ago when we visited the area and stayed at the B&B in Silverton. Spent special times with him and Nancy that we still hold very close to our hearts. A glass of wine, much conversation and laughs. We were very lucky to hear many of his great stories. It was after these visits with the Swanson's that we decided we had to move to the mountains. We spent 13 years in the mountains just recently returning to Indiana to be closer to family. RIP Gerald and as you once stated to us, happy trails, until we meet again.

Tom and Vicki Vacanti

June 12, 2019

Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results

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Memorial Events
for Gerald Swanson

Jun

30

Rosary

7:00 p.m.

St. Patrick's Church

Silverton, CO

Jul

1

Memorial service

4:00 p.m.

St. Patrick's Church

Silverton, CO

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