Byron Swanson “BG”

Byron G. Swanson, “BG”, 57, of Russell, passed away on Thursday, December 5, 2019, at the Warren General Hospital after an extended illness.

BG was born on December 5, 1962, in Punxsutawney, PA, to the late G. Edwin and Esther A. (Utley) Swanson.

BG was a 1980 graduate of Sheffield High School and worked at Blair Corp. for 20 years. He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his children. He enjoyed playing match cars, watching NASCAR, and even did a railroad layout with them. BG enjoyed hunting and was heavily involved in the Scandia VFD, having been a member for 25 years. He held various positions, including President and Secretary. He was also an EMT for almost 20 years. He was also a member of the Pleasant Township Fire Dept. and started as a junior fire fighter in the Clarendon Fire Dept. He loved helping people and jumped at any opportunity to do so.

BG is survived by his loving wife, Suzanne C. Swanson, whom he married on October 23, 1993; his children, Heleena Swanson, of Russell and Raymond Swanson, of Erie; his siblings, John Swanson, of Fredericksburg, VA, and Donald (Sheila) Swanson, of Verona, VA; and nieces and nephews, Matt (Kristi) Swanson, Trevor (Stephanie) Swanson, Travis (Valene) Swanson, Kristen (Ruben) Vasquez and Becky (Justin) Gilkerson, all of VA.

In addition to his parents, BG is preceded in death by his sister, Frances Cederquist.

A memorial service will be held on a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations be given to the Scandia VFD, 5950 Scandia Rd, Russell, PA 16345 or to a Fire Dept. of the donor’s choice.

Those wishing to make online condolences may do so by visiting, www.petersonblickfuneral home.com.