Billy Swanson Obituary

Major (Ret) Billy C. Swanson passed away peacefully at age 85 on May 5, 2010 with his family at his side. He battled Alzheimer's for many years. He embraced life and looked at each day with great expectations and wonder. He never let adversity interfere with living each day to its fullest. He never went to bed regretting what the day had brought and taught him. Thomas Paine wrote, "I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death". Billy had a pure heart and a quiet resolve that conquered all the challenges placed before him. He loved his family, enjoyed the company of his friends, made a hole in one on the golf course, looked forward to a weekend bar-b-que, relished a trout on the line, and fondly remembered flying P-51's with Charles Lindberg while stationed in Japan. Billy was born February 2, 1925 in Rochelle, Illinois, the son of Clarence W. Swanson and Emma J. Cordes Swanson. He had an older brother Lelo Jack Swanson. He is survived by his wife Virginia (Ginny) Swanson. They have been married for 63 years. He is also survived by his son Maj (Ret) Robert V. Swanson. In 1943, he was drafted into the Army Air Corps and went through fighter pilot training. He flew the P-51, F-80, and F-84; his favorite being the P-51 Mustang. He proudly served in the United States Air Force during World War II and Korean War. Following retirement from the Air Force in 1963, he completed work on his BA degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He completed 2 Masters degrees from the University of Northern Colorado earning a teachers certificate and a school administrators license. From 1966 to 1987 Billy taught 5th and 6th grades at Mark Twain Elementary School in Colorado Springs. Billy was an engaging teacher who challenged his students to set high goals and to have fun. He wakened interest and kindled enthusiasm which made teaching appealing and rewarding. His greatest reward came as years passed and former students came back to thank him for what he taught them that changed their lives. Good character, hard work, a healthy appetite for knowledge, coupled with a sense of fun and adventure were Billy's trademarks. Private family services are planned at his request. His remains will occupy a place of honor at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado. Those who would like to express remembrances are asked to contribute to their favorite charity. Mrs. Arthur J. Stanley best encapsulated Billy's life in the following quote: He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his tasks; who has left the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem or a rescued soul; who has never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who has looked for the best in others and given the best he had; whose life was an inspiration; whose memory is a benediction.