Warren Gentle Giant Swanstrom Obituary | Altogether

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Edwards Memorial Funeral Homes - Lakewood

Warren "Gentle Giant" Charles Swanstrom

January 13th, 1953 - October 27th, 2025

January 13th, 1953 - October 27th, 2025

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Warren Charles Swanstrom, lovingly known by many as "Swany", passed away of natural causes on October 27, 2025, at the age of 72. A longtime resident of Lakewood, Washington, Warren left this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and quiet strength.

 

Born on January 12, 1953, at Tacoma General Hospital, Warren was the son of Vivian and Joseph Swanstrom. He grew up in Tacoma, graduating from Wilson High School before embarking on a life marked by service, hard work, and deep devotion to the things-and beings- he loved most.

 

Warren proudly served his county as a Vietnam Navy veteran, receiving an honorable discharge.  After his military service, he built a career first in Las Vegas, Nevada as a Body guard for Actors and Musician's and then into construction (dry wall) and later as a Certified Computer technician. 

 

Though he never had children of his own, Warren's animals were the center of his world. They were his constant companions, his joy, and his family. His last dog, a Newfoundland names "Tiffany" dies of old age, a week before he did. His love for them inspired him to author My Life at the Dog Park, a book that captured his wit, warmth, and the simple pleasures he found in everyday moments.

 

Warren was known for his engaging personality-popular throughout his school years, charming, personable, and always ready with a joke or a story. Music was another of his passions; he was a seasoned guitar player, he loved fishing, and an avid poker player.

 

A dedicated member of his community, Warren served as the neighborhood watch, always keeping an eye out for others and offering help whenever it was needed.

 

warren was preceded in death by his parents, Vivian and Joseph Swanstrom. He is survived  by his siter, Linnea (Lonnie) Rushforth; his nieces and nephews-Bryan Rushforth, Troy Rushforth, Akilah Davis Deernose, Tres Davis, and his favorite, Ellery Davis. He had many cousins, but the closest were Ginny Swanstrom, Carl Swanstrom, and Margie Kimball. He also leaves behind numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. 

 

Warren's steady and humorous personality kept him ready for a political debate (anti Trump) at a moments notice. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the stories he told, the music he played, the dogs he cherished, and the family and friends who loved him dearly.

 

Warren will be presented with a full Military Burial at the Tahoma National Cemetery, located at 18600 SE 240th St, Kent WA. on April 17, 2026 at 1:00PM. In lu of flowers, please make a donation to the Humane Society.

We Entrusted Warren Swanstrom's Care To

Edwards Memorial Funeral Homes - Lakewood

Edwards Memorial Funeral Homes - Lakewood

At Edwards Memorial, our dedication to serving the Tacoma community is reflected in our commitment to offering quality services at an unbeatable price. Recognizing that Washington State has one of the highest cremation rates in the country, we've tailored our approach to meet the specific needs of our community. Instead of investing in costly, elaborate facilities that are seldom used, we minimized our overhead expenses, allowing us to extend significant savings directly to the families we serve....

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(253) 409-2861

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