J. Charles Swanson, Sr.

RENOVO - J. Charles Chuck Swanson Sr., passed away at Phoebes Nursing Home in Allentown on Friday, Feb. 18, 2011. He was born in Renovo on June 6, 1917, son of the late Carl and Sadie (Ekdahl) Swanson. Chuck was a Renovo High School graduate, worked as a gang foreman for the Pennsylvania Railroad for over 40 years, retiring in 1981, and served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII. He attended St. Joseph Catholic Church, was a lifetime member of the Renovo Elks Lodge, enjoyed hunting and fishing, and loved spending time at his camp in Cross Fork. Chuck also loved spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. On Oct. 30, 1954, he married Mary E. Manila, with whom he shared 52 years together. She preceded him in death in 2007. He was also preceded by his brother: Robert and sister: Phyllis LaFrance. Surviving is his son: J. Charles (Nancy) Swanson Jr. of Tallmadge, Ohio and his daughter: Valerie A. (Bryan) Tripp of Schnecksville, Pa. Also surviving are grandchildren: Chad, Corey, Ashlee, Danika, Kylie, and Jayme and a great granddaughter: Karly. Funeral services will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Renovo at Noon Monday, Feb. 21, 2011 with Fr. Charles Ugo celebrating. The family will receive friends at the Church one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery in Hyner. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials to the Elks National Foundation, c/o Renovo Elks Lodge, 118 Fourth St., Renovo, Pa. 17764 or St. Joseph Catholic Church Improvement Fund, 925 Huron Ave., Renovo, Pa. 17764. Maxwell Funeral Home, Renovo has charge of arrangements.