Paige Arden Swanson

Paige Arden Swanson of Wyoming, Michigan, passed away September 22, 2010 at the age of 62. Born September 24, 1947 to Carl and Mary (Gallapoo) Swanson. Paige was raised with one brother, Scott, who was 6 years older. The age difference didn't stop them from having a great friendship.

Paige attended Central High School and in his senior year decided to leave school and join the military. He proudly joined the Marine Corps in 1966. He served in the Vietnam war aboard the USS Providence from 1966 -1968. Highly decorated for his service in the Vietnam war he returned home in 1969. In 1974 Paige returned to school and earned his diploma. Paige got to see the world in a way that most people don't. Though it was through combat, he took in every moment with gratitude and honor.

Paige married his high school sweetheart, Linda Werkema, on August 30th, 1968 during a civilian leave. In 1970 the first of four daughters was born, Hope Mary Ann. Christina Anna followed in 1973, in 1975 Lisa Linn and then in 1977 Leslie Paige. In 1980 they gave birth to a son, Paige Michael Scott. Sadly 3 months later Baby Paige had passed away. Leaving both Paige and Linda heartbroke. A few years later they decided to go their seperate ways.

Knowing he had to move on with his life, he continued working for General Motors and spent as much time as he could with his daughters. One thing Paige really enoyed was spending time at "The Cabin" in the Upper Penninisula. He and his brother had purchased the property from their dad and continued to enjoy it for many years to come. Paige spent many hunting and fishing seasons there with his brother and his good buddies.

Paige also enjoyed working with "Boy Scouts of America" and volunteering some of his time to Special Olympics and Kent County 4-H. He was a confident and commited man, devoting 31 years to General Motors. He gratefully retired in 2002, a well deserved retirement. After retirement he enjoyed spending time with old friends he lost touch with and enjoyed the new he had met either at The Moose Lodge or The American Legion. From time to time he would return to the old cabin in the U.P. and enjoy the silence and beauty that gave him peace of mind.

Dad was a stong man, not only in brawn but brain. He was a thinker, always looking for absolutes in this world. Dad was an honest man, one anyone could talk to and could expect an honest answer, even if it hurt. Dad had his ups and downs in life, he had tears of joy, tears of pain and tears of just simple contentment, but always stayed strong. He was a friend a friend could trust. He left in this world four beautiful daughters, each with their own strenghths.

He also left 6 grandchildren who will miss Grandpa's humor. If you knew dad then you know what i mean.

He has touched many lives with his friendship and many friends will miss him. I know he will be missed everyday.