Carl Edwin Swenson

Carl E. Swenson of Edmonds Washington died early Christmas day at the age of 91 after saying goodbye to his wife Jean Swenson and family. Carl was born in Boonville Indiana in 1922 and spent his childhood on a dairy farm in Elma, Washington. He spent his adult years in Seattle and Edmonds.Carl served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and active in the Naval Reserve until 1975, attaining the rank of Captain. He was honored by The Reserve Officers Association of Washington as the oldest living president of that association. He commanded the Naval Reserve Officers School, Naval Reserve Public Affairs Company and served as liaison with the Navy Recruiting District Headquarters for the Northwest. He was also a member of the National Advisory Board, Vice President of Navy League of the United States.Carl was a graduate of the University of Washington college of Business Administration, majoring in accounting and active in ROTC. He was married to Lorraine Suldan who preceded him in death in 2005. They had four children. For 31 years Carl was Executive Vice President of Sweden Freezer Mfg. in Ballard, manufacturer of soft ice cream machines and parts for the kidney dialysis machine which he later needed for his health. He later had his own business consulting company. Carl was active in a hunting club, which he founded.Carl served on Boards of Directors for several organizations including President of the Ballard Hospital Board, Ballard Hospital Foundation, and Seattle Hearing, Speech and Deafness Center. He was past Rotary District Governor 5030 (1983-84), member of the Washington State Advisory Board of Governors and a member of Edmonds and Ballard Rotary clubs for over 50 years (a multiple Paul Harris member). Most recently he held position of President, Edmonds Rotary Club and volunteered with the club for numerous community events. Carl was a member of Edmonds United Methodist Church.Carl is survived by his wife, Jean Swenson, three children Susan Swenson, Pamela Brown, Janice Coogan and Gary Swenson (preceded him in death), five grandchildren and Jeans children Nancy Edwards, Karen Walsh, Dave Eastman and her six grandchildren.Carl embodied true citizenship, living the Rotary creed service above self, by serving his community and country. His smile, friendship and generosity will be missed. His last words were I had a great ride! Right oh! and Good show!A memorial service will be held on Saturday January 18th at 1:00 pm at Edmonds United Methodist Church, 828 Caspers Street, Edmonds WA 98020. Please sign his on line guest book at http://www.becksfuneralhome.comDonations may be made in Carls honor to Edmonds Rotary Foundation at P.O. Box 1951 Edmonds WA 98020. Announcement: Donations may be made in Carls honor to Edmonds Rotary Foundation at P.O. Box 1951 Edmonds WA 98020. p