Sammy "Sam" Swanson

Sammy "Sam" Jack Swanson, age 80, passed away peacefully after a long illness at home in the loving arms of his wife Jan on April 7, 2023.  Sam was born in Ludington, Michigan. He lived most of his life in Grand Rapids, Michigan and enjoyed a second home in Naples, Florida for many years.  Sam is survived by his wife, Janice (DeHaan) Swanson, his son Scott (Elisa), granddaughters, Tiffany, Kiara and Arianna, as well as extended family members.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his darling beloved daughter Stacy Renee Swanson Walton, his sister Mary and  brother Carl.

Sam was the President of Swanson and Associates Inc. for over 50 years and served as a General Agent with Ohio National Insurance Company for over 30 years.  Sam was one of the most successful Ohio National General Agents and earned numerous sales awards and accolades during his lifetime including The Million Dollar Round Table and The Tschantz Lifetime Achievement Award.  He was a mentor to numerous agents and was highly respected in his field.  

Having been a veteran who honorably served his country, he took great pride in his involvement with The Folds of Honor, serving on the Board of Directors.

Sam loved boating & enjoyed cruising with Jan and their dogs in Northern Michigan and around Spring Lake and the Holiday Inn.  He loved skiing with his “good buddies” in Aspen, Vail, Northern Michigan, etc.  Sam was an avid golfer and was a member of Blythefield Country Club in Grand Rapids as well as a member of Pelican Marsh Golf Club in Naples, Florida. Sam loved life, traveling, sports, the MSU Spartans and spending time with friends and family.   He had a dynamic personality and anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Sam would never forget him.

In accordance with Sam’s wishes, he was cremated and his ashes will be sprinkled in northern Michigan at a later time. Memorial contributions may be made in Sam’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  A special thank you to A.C.E. Home Health Care Services, Inc, Howard City, Sentinel Pointe’s Healthcare Associates, Gentiva Hospice and especially Reverend Alex Steward, M-Div. Chaplain for their very compassionate support during Sam’s illness.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later time for Sam.

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