Edward Mikel Swenson (Pete) Obituary

Passed away at San Antonio Hospital in Upland, CA on March 14, 2024. Born in Wentworth, South Dakota on January 6, 1933. His high school was very small, with three graduating in his class. His father Monrad Swenson was an immigrant from Norway. While studying English he met and married his life partner Sadie Darlow. A farming family, Pete was one of four children. Pete went to France during the Korean War and upon return from the Army, he went to X-ray Technician Training in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He stayed with his beloved sister Dorothy Hardy. Upon graduation from tech school, he got married to his first wife Mary, and moved to California. His family grew rapidly moving to Upland, CA with four children, Maureen, Steve, Kathy, and Randy.He was a devoted family man who enjoyed raising his children and making trips to the Colorado River. Those annual events brought together many friends and family, which included Kim Hardy, his nephew, making lifelong memories for the entire family.He married his second wife Eva in 1983, 40 plus years of marriage and blending of a new family of her four girls, Karen, Corinne, Carol, and Constance.His generous giving was facilitated by being a lifelong member of the Elk’s Club in Ontario, California.Pete made a killer lasagna that everyone all enjoyed multiple times. Piddling in his garage was one of his favorite pastimes.Pete loved to debate and banter about anything; it didn’t matter which side of the argument he was on. In the end, a small smile came on his face as he was getting your reaction.He loved finding loopholes in most things work-related, making the job a game at finding the easiest method of getting it done. One of his favorite challenges was doing taxes and facing down the IRS on audits. He earned a reputation as a worthy opponent and will certainly be missed by the IRS.His grandsons and great-grandsons will all remember their time spent with him and with his loving dedicated mentoring, especially the youngest Anthony.Interesting note he also spoke French unbeknownst to all and Norwegian. Preceded in death was Mary Swenson his first wife and Kathleen Hairston his second daughter. Survived by Maureen, Steven, and Randy from his first marriage. Also survived by his current wife Eva and her four daughters, Karen, Corinne, Carol, and Connie.He will be missed deeply by all who knew him and loved him.Military and memorial service to be announced at a practical time in the future.