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Carl “Swannee” Swanson

August 8, 1930 - February 19, 2021
Service
St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church
2252 Woodruff Road
Simpsonville, SC 29681
Friday 8/6, 10:00 am

Carl Michael “Swannee” Swanson was born on August 8th, 1930 in Gary, IN and grew up in Chicago. He was a devoted father, husband and friend, and will be sorely missed by many. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Gerry; daughters Susan and Sharon; grandchildren Aron, Eleanor and Oliver; sister Virginia Barabasz,Continue Reading

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Doug Martin left a message on November 6, 2023:
I am just now seeing the passing of Carl Swanson. I had the pleasure of calling on Carl and entertaining he and Gerry back in the day when he was with Woolworth's and I was the Sales Representative with Crowley Maritime. He was definitely one of a kind. He liked to say he was from Manhattan since he transferred from Manhattan, Kansas prior to coming to South Carolina. Carl had a great sense of humor and was a pleasure to call on. My belated condolences to Gerry, family, and friends.
John A Penoyer left a message on August 3, 2021:
“Swannee” Swanson I remember you and Gerry among the founding members of St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church; always with a smile and something to promote for the benefit for others. Your service to our country and our church have been an inspiration. I’ll be drinking a toast to your memory and bidding you a fond farewell on your journey Home. May God reward you richly in His Kingdom forever, JOHN
lucille irving left a message on July 28, 2021:
Carl was one of a kind that put you in a happy mood as soon as you saw him. He was my neighbor and friend. I admired how active he was in the parrish and community. Everyone loved Carl. Rest in peace Carl. I know you are in heaven, probably selling raffle tickets. Love Lucille Irving
Stephanie Koshis left a message on February 26, 2021:
What a beautiful, rich & faith filled life Carl has had here on earth touching so many people’s lives in a way that only Carl could! l will fondly remember how much l enjoyed seeing him, Gerry & friends come into the Olympian Grill every Friday night which turned into entertainment for all my customers as we playfully & humorously harassed one another! Carl was a well known fixture there & loved by all. When my daughter’s family came in with my grandkids he always made sure they got a dollar for their piggy bank. My husband & l were just talking about Carl & we send our thoughts & prayers to Gerry & her family knowing he will be missed by so many including our family. Pray for us Carl as we will continue to pray for you.
Bruce and Brenda Meyer left a message on February 25, 2021:
It is with great sadness that we learned of Carl's passing. He and Gerry were great friends from the time they and we moved to Greenville in Holly Tree on the same street in 1983.  We remember the rotating bridge games with four couples on the street, the annual Kentucky Derby parties at the Swanson's every spring and the bon fires every fall at our house, the golf games with Carl and later the July 4th fireworks at Holly Tree and so much more. Gerry, Sharon and Sue-you in our prayers
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Tom & Pam Farrell left a message on February 24, 2021:
Wonderful person and great friend. Always willing to help and support many charitable endeavors. Raffle sales will now replace bingo in heaven!!! Tom & Pam Farrell
Ron Gillen left a message on February 24, 2021:
I’ll never forget he told about visiting Gerry in Chicago while he was stationed in California. He flew to ChiIcago on a military standby ticket. It would be tough to pull one on Swanny but his Marine Corps buddies did. They convinced him he would need to sign out a parachute to fly military standby. So he did, but when he  got on the plane there was no place to store it but on his lap along with his duffel bag. Well on the return to the base, he had to repeat the.parachute routine. Once he landed in CA his buddies met him with a huge guffaw! It was only then that he realized he had been had!!! I’m sure he has sold at least a million raffle  tickets to the Blessed Trinity’s latest Catholiic charity event!
Len Byrne left a message on February 24, 2021:
Our Goodness Lords better be ready to buy a raffle ticket. On a more serious note what a geat legacy for Carl to leave 90 years of many endeavors including serving our country and serving his fellow man. Thanks Seanny. Len
John Finnaren and Family left a message on February 24, 2021:
As a neighbor and friend.... Carl was always good for a laugh and a constant smile. Our whole family sends it's prayers to Gerry and his immediate family.  His impish grin and quick wit will always be remembered. His back-forth with members of other military branches made get togethers with him memorable. God rest his soul for your hard work... "Well done my good and faithful Servant" 
Joe & June Julian left a message on February 24, 2021:
Gerry & Family: Carl was always a "bigger than life" personality. He was loved by all who knew him. I first met Carl when we were ushers at SMMCC. I truly enjoyed seeing him and Gerry every Sunday. He was a proud Korean war Marine veteran. I remember an incident when I introduced Carl to a Marine Colonel at the annual Marine Ball. I told the officer Carl was in the Korean War. The colonel asked, "who were you with". Carl in his usual "wit" responded, "The Americans." This exemplified Carl's humor and personality. We pray that God grants Gerry and family the strength and resolve to cope with their loss. His friendship to all will be sadly missed. We're confident Carl is now being held in the "hollow of God's hand".
With sorrow, sympathy and condolences,
Joe & June Julian        
Annette & Bill Donohue left a message on February 24, 2021:
When Carl walked into a room it was lit up with fun times, laughter, and a genuine concern for others. He just made our St. Patrick Day parade a success and was the perfect leprechaun. My granddaughter Abby just loved Carl and she said she felt his love for her. He touched many hearts and we will all miss this beautiful man. We have many wonderful memories with him. He was serious about his faith and we know he is at peace and in God's arms now. Rest in peace Carl, love Annette & Bill
Jim & Theresa Neason left a message on February 23, 2021:
Who knew the gentleman who so generously shared leaves for a biology project in fall 1984 would become a friend till now. What a special person to all neighbors who stopped by The Swanson’s including all the puppies who always got a treat. We will miss our favorites leprechaun
Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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