John Robert Swanson

     John Robert Swanson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on November 6, 2026, at the age of 83.
     John was born on May 27, 1943 in South Haven, MI to Robert Swanson and Ruth Brown Swanson. He married Barbara Jean Tait on August 22, 1970, and together they built a life filled with love, family, faith, and lasting memories.
     John graduated from Arcadia High School with the class of 1961 and attended Michigan State University. He remained a devoted Spartan fan throughout his life. His enthusiasm for the green and white was a lifelong passion. He worked for the Natural Resources Conservation Service for 37 years, where he served others through his commitment to conservation and stewardship of the land.
     John was a longtime and faithful member of the Ithaca Lions Club and Ithaca Living Hope Church. His involvement in both organizations reflected his commitment to his community, his faith, and helping others.
     Outside of work and community service, John found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved gardening and took pride in the beauty and rewards of working in the soil. He especially enjoyed hunting for agates along the shores of Lake Superior, where the search for these little treasures brought him happiness. Whether cheering on the Spartans, tending his garden, or walking the shoreline in search of agates, John appreciated the outdoors and the special moments life had to offer.
      Above all, John cherished his family. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara; his daughters, Sara (Jon) Morrison, Amy (Chip) Underwood, and Anna Swanson; and his four grandchildren, Ian Underwood, Ella Underwood, Mallory Morrison, and Callie Morrison, who brought him tremendous joy.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Ruth Swanson; his parents-in-law, George and Beth Tait; and his brother-in-law, Dale Tait.
     John will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his faith, his community, and the many passions that made his life uniquely his own. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he treasured, and the many lives he touched along the way.
      He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
      A Graveside Service will be held at Ithaca Cemetery at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, November 14, 2026, with Pastor Keith Leonard officiating.
      Memorial donations may be made to Living Hope Methodist Church - Building Fund, Lions Club International Foundation, or to the American Cancer Society. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.