Obituaries/Viewings
Charles A. Swanson | 83
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Charles A. Swanson, age 83, of Kersey, passed away, surrounded by his family, on May 29, 2021 at Penn Highlands DuBois.
Charles was born January 29, 1938, in Toby Valley, the son of the late George and Elvera Gradizzi Swanson. He graduated from Kersey High School and went on to work at Pure Carbon as a machine mechanic. He retired in 2000 after 43 years of dedicated service.
Charles married Delores Gusmerotti in 1958. Delores unexpectedly passed away in 1971, and he married Vondalee Hottel in 1973.
Charles was a veteran of the Pennsylvania National Guard, serving for nine years. He was actively involved in the Fox Township Lions Club, Toby Valley Grange, Fourth Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus, Elk County Fair Board-Chairman, Bedford Grange Mutual Insurance Agency-Board of Directors, Fox Township Community Council, and a faithful member of St. Boniface Parish. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone. He lived in the spirit of service and compassion for others.
Charles is survived by his wife, Vondalee; his children: Rita (Robin) Gerber of Kersey, Randy Swanson of Kersey, Linda (Joe) Bankovich of Kersey, Lisa (Barry) LaRock of Chemung, NY; his siblings: Patricia Vollmer of Kersey, George (Ann) Swanson of Kersey, Robert (Kathy) Swanson of Kersey, and Paul (Peggy) Swanson of Kersey; his beloved grandchildren Braden, Michael and Matthew LaRock, Carly, Caitlyn and Courtney Bankovich, Ellen, Amy and Adam Gerber, Tyler, Sonya, Emily and Amanda Swanson, and Andrew Woodford; and a brother-in-law, Pierre Pontzer. He also enjoyed holding and loving on his 19 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and his first wife, Delores, he was preceded in death by two sisters: Esther Pontzer and Elvera Swanson, in infancy; a brother-in-law, Jerry Vollmer; a daughter-in-law, Carol Swanson; and a granddaughter, Sarah Woodford.
Regardless if one knew him as, “Charlie”, “PopPop”, or “The Governor”, Charles lived for his family. He loved nature, and took any chance to be outdoors including camping, hunting, fishing and spending time at the Swanson family camp. He also loved traveling with his wife and friends. He would jump at a trip to Las Vegas or even just a quick ride to Seneca Allegheny to spin the birthday wheel. He also always looked forward to the annual family trip to Knoebels to sit by the campfire and enjoy everyone together.
He was a funny prankster, special to many, and loved by all. He will be missed beyond measure.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated in the St. Boniface Church on Thursday, June 3, 2021 at 11:00 AM, with the Rev. Ross Miceli, Pastor, officiating. Burial will be in the St. Boniface Cemetery.
Visitation will be held in the St. Boniface Church Gathering Space from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Memorial donations can be made to the Scleroderma Foundation Tri-State, Inc., 59 Front Street, Binghamton, NY 13905; the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Western Pennsylvania Chapter, 600 Waterfront Drive, Suite 223, Pittsburgh, PA 15222; the Guardian Angel Center, 364 Main Street, Kersey, PA 15846; or a charity of one’s choice.
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Dear Auntie and family,
Just wanted to send our love, let you know we’re with you in spirit and you’re in our prayers as you lay Uncle Chuck to rest this week. When I think of him, “planes, trains, and automobiles” comes to mind — he was always ready for an adventure. Yet, he always seemed so content — a world class people-watcher, and just such a patient, positive person to be around. Sure will miss him!
Sending lots of love and wishing you peace,
Colleen, Mary Oliver and Matt, Allyson and Tony
Lisa & Family,
From your friends at Air Methods; we send our deepest condolences and wish you and your entire family strength and peace in this difficult time.
Charles was a great man. No matter where or when you ran into him, he made you feel special. He always had a hug for me. I will miss you my dear friend. RIP
Lisa, Barry and Boys,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Your dad was a very nice person and will be greatly missed.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Mr. Swanson was a very nice guy with a great sense of humor. He will be missed. I will never forget his favorite “cough medicine” that could cure anything. Rest In Peace.