John O. Swanson

1933 - 2021

OCEANSIDE, CA — John O. Swanson (88) of Oceanside, California, went home to his savior, Jesus Christ, on April 8, 2021. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Charlotte; parents, Oscar and Hazel Swanson; and sister, Carol Putnam. He is survived by his sister, Marsha, of Greer SC, four nieces and a nephew, 14 grand nieces and nephews, and five cousins.

John was born 1933 in Harvey, Illinois. He was a graduate of Thornton Township High School. He played trumpet in the school band. He was a military veteran, serving in the US Army in the 1950s, working as a military photographer.

John always liked to tinker with things so he set his sights on attending technical school. He graduated from DeVry Technical Institute in Illinois, and had a long career as an electronic technician for General Dynamics in San Diego county. John used to love telling stories about his work as the Shop Steward, and specializing in the rocket propulsion section.

Speaking of telling stories, ask most anyone in Oceanside, California, where John spent a majority of his time engaging everyone in good humor and conversation, they will tell you, “Home Town Buffett”! John was an “Exalted Ruler” and member of the Encinitas Elks Lodge during the 1960s and 1970s. He was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Oceanside for many years.

Memorial gifts may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 3320 Mission Ave., Suite H, Oceanside, CA 92058.

The family would like to extend our appreciation to the outpouring of love and care from his Church Family; especially Pastor Terry Yoder, and Cresenciano and Menchie Flores.