Eugene L. “Smokey” Swanson, 84, of 11 Cyndi Lane, Kane, died Friday morning, March 24, 2017 at UPMC Hamot in Erie.
Smokey was born January 10, 1933 in Kane to Paul and Hilda Gustafson Swanson. He was raised on his family’s property in Kanesholm where he eventually resided until his death. Smokey took great pride in his homestead and enjoyed many days tending to the property.
Smokey served in the United States Air Force, and on May 6, 1953 in Wichita, Texas, married Nancy L. Cuthbertson. They returned to Kane that year where he took a permanent job working for the Kendall Refining Company in Bradford. Although he worked in a variety of realms at Kendall, he spent the majority of his career as an electrician there, and eventually became the foreman until his retirement in the mid-1990s. He greatly enjoyed his more than 40 years of work at Kendall and his colleagues and reminisced frequently about his career.
As a man who preferred to be busy and involved, he took advantage of all that life offered. Smokey and his wife traveled together, spent time at home working in his garage, swimming, throwing horseshoes, shooting pool, playing cards, and supporting his family and friends.
He was an avid golfer who enjoyed his weekly Wednesday tee time at the Kane Country Club as well as playing golf with his granddaughter. He was an active member of the Tabor Lutheran Church of Kane, having served on the church council and as an usher.
Additionally, he was a member of Kane Lodge #566 F&AM, where last year he was honored for 60 years of membership.
Smokey’s amiable personality and use of humor acquired him many life-long friends. He was a problem solver who would support anyone in need. His spirit and kindness were contagious, and he made a point to recognize others and make them feel welcome. Smokey was a talented, energetic, and devoted man. His wife and his family were the center of his life.
In addition to his wife of 63 years, he is survived by his daughter, Cynthia M. Lorenzo of Kane; two grandchildren, Kristin M. Lorenzo and Daniel W. Lorenzo, both of Kane; and four nieces and one nephew. Preceding him in death, besides his parents, are his brother, Paul V. Swanson and his grandson, Brian D. Lorenzo.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 on Monday at Tabor Ev. Lutheran Church in Kane with the rev. Bill Waterman, pastor, officiating. Interment will follow privately in Lebanon Cemetery, Kanesholm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tabor Lutheran Church, 200 Dawson St., Kane, PA 16735; or to the McKean Co. SPCA, 80 Glenwood Ave., Bradford, PA 16701.
Online condolences can be made at https://www.ronaldmcdonaldfuneralhome.com
