Burton E. Swanson, KB6O SK June 5, 2018 10-10 Number: 21201 QCWA Number: 31617 OOTC Number: 3373 Burton E. Swanson, age 97, a 39-year resident of Bullhead City, Ariz. passed away on Tuesday, June 5, 2018. He was born on October 27, 1920 in LaGrange, Ill. Burt had a passion for all things mechanical and began a machinist apprenticeship at the American Can Company following his high school graduation. With the onset of World War II, Burt began to develop his second passion, flying. After initial flight training Burt entered Naval Pre-Flight School at the University of Iowa in Iowa City. This is where he met his future bride, Geraldine Reams. They married in Corpus Christi, Texas and began a life that included living in Illinois, California, and Arizona. As a Naval Aviator, Burt flew air combat flights in the American Asiatic Pacific Theater, earning the Asiatic-Pacific 1 Star Medal, Air Medal with 1 Silver Star, and a Distinguished Flying Cross. He continued on into the Naval Reserves in both Illinois and California, where he retired from the Naval reserves with the rank of Lieutenant. He was active with the Senior Nutrition Center, Elks Club, Moose Club, Senior Circle and with Ham Radios. He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine Swanson; and his brother, Norman Swanson. Burt is survived by his son, David B. Swanson of Watsonville, Calif.; two daughters, Anne (Dennis) Mitchell of Barstow, Calif. and Mary (Richard) George of Pebble Beach, Calif.; grandson, Douglas (Teresa) George of LaVerne, Calif.; two granddaughters, Amy (Mike) Walker of Apple Valley, Calif. and Jennifer (Angel) Martinez of Watsonville, Calif. The family would like to extend thanks and appreciation to the nurses, doctors, and assistants at WARMC, the Bullhead City Fire-Rescue Department, the nursing and care staff at River Gardens Rehab facility, Legacy facility, Compassus Hospice, the staff and membership at the Bullhead City Senior Nutrition Center, Dr. Joel Paulino and staff, and the team at the Law Offices of Jamie Kelley. Additional thanks to the numerous friends and neighbors whose friendships and acquaintances were vital to Burt. These kind persons eased and supported Burt's final years, months, and days. Anyone wishing to honor Burt Swanson are requested to consider a donation to the Bullhead City Senior Nutrition Center. Scattering of ashes will be at Monterey, Calif. Published in Mohave Daily News Online from June 17 to June 24, 2018 http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/mo...burton-e-swanson-burt&pid=189284745&fhid=9541
