James David Swan
June 9th, 2021
Swan, James (Jim) David
October 23, 1944 - Chicago, Illinois
June 9, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jim Swan after a gallant battle with cancer. He passed peacefully in Calgary with his loving wife of 30 years at his side.
Jim is survived by his wife, Cathy; and one son, Jeffrey who resides in Illinois.
After graduating High School, Jim joined the Aeronautical Division of the US Navy where he was stationed on and off the ice in the Antarctica supporting the US McMurdo research station. After only four years, he went back to Chicago, married, and joined American Airlines where he worked for 28 years before early retirement in 1995.
In 1988, he met his current wife, Cathy, married in Calgary in 1990 then they went back to Chicago until his retirement.
Jim immigrated to Canada after which, he and Cathy set up residence in Airdrie. In retirement they traveled extensively until becoming snow birds in Arizona in 2014.
Arizona wasn’t for Cathy so they sold in 2017 and Jim became involved with Airdrie Iron Horse Park where he volunteered until his passing.
Due to Covid restrictions, a private family gathering to Celebrate his Life will be held in July.
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the non profit he loves: Airdrie Iron Horse ParK PO Box 10381, Main Postal Station, Airdrie, Alberta, T4A 0H6 or to the Tom Baker Cancer Centre where he received outstanding care, 1331 – 29 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N2.
Messages:
Our deepest sympathy Cathy. He was a special man. You have so many beautiful memories. We are here fir you if you need help.
To Cathy and friends, I want everyone to know that my Uncle Jim was a wonderful family man, a pillar in our family, and a wonderful role model. My first remembrance of Uncle Jim is when I was 4 years old; Grandma Toote would proudly show us the picture she had of him in his Navy uniform. Uncle Jim helped my Mother thru her divorce and troubling times in her life. When Grandma Toote passed away Uncle Jim was the pillar who helped the family during a difficult time. AS a role model I followed Uncle Jim in serving my country and retired after 23 years of service. Uncle Jim will be sadly missed by all the soles he touched. My deepest condolences to Cathy and Jeff from from all the Rasor Family.
Cathy, condolences on your loss. Our heart and thoughts are with you.
Jim was a great friendly guy who would help anyone at AMES when asked. Hard working a great sense of humor and very welcoming. We will certainly miss his quick smile and manner.
Dear Cathy I have to say that it saddened me so much that I didn't get to say God Buy to Jim. It was my plan to do so on that Wednesday, and I then received your TXT that morning to say he had passed. Please know that he will be very much missed at IHP, where he was an expert at Multi-Tasking, and was an integral part of keeping IHP Landscaping in tip top condition, as well has being an Engine Driver and Relief Dispatcher, to name a few of his many talents. I know I, as will all of the Guys and Gals at IHP will miss him very much. Sincere Condolences Keith Bailey High River, Alberta
Am so sorry for your loss, Cathy. Jim was such a dynamic individual. Please take some comfort in knowing that my thoughts are of you at this difficult time.
Our hearts go out to you and Jeffrey, Jim was a great leader to us at the park and made us laugh all the time. Missing him bunches and bunches. We put a Cubs Penant on the mower to keep him at the park.
So very sad to hear of your soulmate passing. Jim was such a kind, gentle and friendly man. And a great Chicago Cubs fan. Admired him for going to see his Cubs play. He will greatly missed by all who knew him.
So sorry for your loss.
Our deepest sympathy to Cathy and family with their loss of Jim who was such a wonderful person.
Dearest Catherine, Words cannot express the depth of sorrow Cathy and I feel over the loss of your Jim - the love of your life and best friend. From the moment we first met him, we were impressed by his unassuming, friendly demeanour. He had a gentle quietude about himself that was truly admirable. That quality, mixed with a wry sense of humour made him a joy to be around. He will be sorely missed. Please accept our deepest condolences as you attempt to move forward to try and fill this massive void that has been created in your life. Rest assured that you are in our thoughts and prayers and, along with the rest of our family, will be there to support you with all of our love.
Cathy, what a beautiful goodbye to your loving husband and our friend. The day was perfect,the food was delicious and tributes so fitting. I found the train ride you went on with his ashes very moving. Jim, Rest In Peace, your loved ones and friends will follow you.