John Kenneth Swan

John Kenneth Swan’s valiant battle with bladder cancer ended April 17, 2021.
He was born June 29, 1945, in Portland, Ore; the younger loving brother to Helen (Swan) Leith and son to John C. and Ruth S. Swan.
He spent his younger years on a farm where he enjoyed driving tractors and other vehicles at an early age. After graduating from Junction City High School, he attended Portland State University. There he earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, the latter in Urban Planning & Development. He took a two year break during this time to serve in the army.
After Ken and Beverly Jacobsen’s wedding, their family grew to include Karl Swan, Jane Swan, Barbara (Jeff) Lowell and three grandchildren. They later divorced. During this time Ken worked for the Portland Development Commission, a job which brought him insights to understanding the importance of urban planning.
In 2004 he moved to Longview where he enjoyed working at WINCO as the “Produce Guy” until he retired.
His life took a wonderful turn when he married Karen Iverson in 2015. Karen’s children, Valerie and Kevin, plus her five grandchildren welcomed “Grandpa Ken” into the family. They enjoyed travel, challenging each other at Wheel of Fortune, gardening, and stimulating political discussions. Further passions included U of O sports, Trail Blazer games, and golfing with special friends.
Ken had long term sobriety and was dedicated to the recovery community for over 20 years, always ready to help others. He was a very kind and generous person. He will be genuinely missed.
Family and friends are invited to a gathering in Longview celebrating Ken’s life planned for July 24, 2021. Visit www.longviewmemorialpark for further information, when the date is closer.
A new covered basketball court is now open at Kessler and 21st, where youth can gather and enjoy a healthy activity. As a kid Ken would have enjoyed such a facility. Visit https://Harliesangles to learn how local volunteers, motivated by one family’s loss made this happen. If interested, donations may be sent to this site or to Harlie’s Angels, P.O. Box 1834, Castle Rock, WA 98611.