James Randall Swanson

James Randall "Randy" Swanson, age 77 of L'Anse, MI passed away on Monday, May 17, 2021 after being at the D.J. Jacobetti Home for Veterans in Marquette, MI for short time.

He was born March 16, 1944 in Iron Mountain, MI son of Lyman and Nathalie (Hill) Swanson. Randy grew up in Baraga and recently moved to Huron Bay where he enjoyed views of the lake eagles. Randy served in the U.S. Navy from October 1961 and was honorably discharged in March 1965. He served during several conflicts and the Vietnam war. Randy married the former Karen Sherman on September 10, 1966 in Newberry, MI. He started as a mechanic, did mechanic trouble shooting and sales for Pettibone until 1982 when he went to work for American State Equipment as a salesman, retiring in 1999.

Randy enjoyed RVing, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, mechanic work, old westerns and putzing in his garage. He had a love for Isle Royale and fishing in the Florida Keys. He was a dedicated Packer Fan and enjoyed a good NASCAR race. Randy also cherished spending time with his grandkids---attending their sporting events and racing his grandkids on the beach.

Surviving are his wife Karen of L'Anse; daughter Colleen (Greg) Harris of Green Bay, WI; son Scott (Kimberly) Swanson of L'Anse; siblings, Larry (Elaine) Swanson of Wyoming, MI, Greta Pesognelli of Baraga, MI, Cynthia Hofbauer of San Diego, CA, Lyn Swanson of Fort Lauderdale, FL; five grandchildren, Johanna (Mike) Tomcheck, Eli Harris, Autumn Swanson, Madissen Swanson, and Natalie Swanson and several cousins. Preceding him in death are his parents.

A private family celebration will be held. Burial will be in the Baraga Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to a Veterans charity of choice. Jacobson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Friends may sign Randy's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.