Washington 1965 Dennis Michael Swanson

March 03, 1947 - Oct. 18, 2016

SOUTH BEND - Dennis Michael Swanson, 69, of South Bend Indiana passed away at 2:55 a.m. Tuesday, October 18, 2016 in his home, surrounded by his loving family. Mike was born on March 3, 1947 in South Bend, IN to the late Robert G. and Patricia (Wendel) Swanson. On December 16, 1972 in South Bend, IN, he married Laura Slater, who survives. Mike is also survived by one daughter, Ann (Todd) Wisniewski of South Bend, IN; two sons, Michael Swanson and Craig (Casey) Swanson both of South Bend, IN; four grandchildren, Lauren, Alex and Amanda Swanson and Lacie Wisniewski; one sister, Gloria Swanson of South Bend, IN; one brother, Robert Swanson of Columbus, IN; his mother-in-law, LoVona Slater of South Bend, IN; and many nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, Mike was preceded in death by a brother, Craig L. Swanson and a granddaughter, Sophia Swanson. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 22, 2016 in Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Drive. Burial will follow in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, with full military honors. A visitation will be held from 2:00 until 8:00 p.m. Friday, October 21, 2016 in the funeral home. After graduating from Washington High School in 1965, Mike served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, where he received a purple heart for his service. He was sworn in as an officer of the South Bend Police Dept in 1970 and retired in 1999. Mike then served as Commander of the St. Joseph County Special Crimes Unit for four years. Mike enjoyed fishing, baseball (Cubs), and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He loved dogs, especially his four-legged granddogs. Mike could always be counted on to lend a hand to anyone in need. He was a selfless family man who humbly served others before himself, always. The family would like to thank Dr. Zon and staff at Michiana Hematology-Oncology, Center for Hospice, and the special care given by close family and friends. Memorial contributions may be made in Mike's honor to the Center for Hospice Care. Online condolences may be left at www.kaniewski.com

Funeral Home

Kaniewski Funeral Homes

3545 North Bendix Drive

South Bend, IN 46628

(574) 277-4444 Funeral Home Details

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Published in South Bend Tribune on Oct. 20, 2016