Joel Swan Obituary

Joel C. Swan, aged 84, passed away on Oct. 12, 2024, in Michigan City, Indiana.

Born on Sept. 12, 1940, Joel dedicated his life to his family and community, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. Joel graduated from La Porte High School in 1959 and later earned a degree from Purdue University. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1959 to 1962, contributing diligently to his country's safety and well-being.

Joel's professional life was marked by a 36-year tenure at Bethlehem Steel before starting a second career for 15 years at Walsh & Kelly, where he was respected for his work ethic and camaraderie.

A man of deep faith, Joel was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in La Porte. His involvement included serving on the board, ushering and participating in the men's club. Joel's commitment to his faith and community was evident in his charitable endeavors and leadership roles.

Joel's personal life was filled with joy and love, shared with his wife of 50 years, Cheri (Haberman) Swan; and their five beautiful daughters, Cyndi Losiniecki, Denise Tanner, Tami Heisman (Scott), Cheri Trapana (Tom) and Jori Swan Caratini (Mark). He was a cherished grandfather/papa/grandpa to 10 grandchildren, Amy Wallisa, Eric Gottman, Dylan Gottman, Chad Tanner (Stephanie), Heather Heisman, Elizabeth Brady, Jaclyn Brady, Stephanie Brady, Andrew Caratini and Emma Caratini. He also had 14 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. He was a beloved uncle to his nephews, Rory Swan, Jeff Swan, David Swan and Mark Swan; and his niece, Renee Swan. His family was his pride and joy, and he relished every moment spent with them.

His hobbies included membership at the Masonic Temple Michigan City ACME Lodge 83 F&AM and the Scottish Rite.

He loved holidays with family, but especially Christmas. He loved the magic of Disney. Everyone who knows him knows his love of Donald Duck and the Duke himself, John Wayne. He truly enjoyed living so close to Lake Michigan and enjoying the calm serenity of the water or feeding the ducks. He enjoyed traveling and taking long drives or staying home and watching TV.

He embraced life with enthusiasm, positivity and kindness. He never met a stranger and welcomed everyone. He was beyond generous and would lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Gladys and Theodore (Ted) Swan; and his brothers, Frederick ("Fritz") and Gordon Swan.

Arrangements are entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home, 602 Maple Avenue, La Porte, IN 46350, where the family will receive friends and family at a visitation on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, from 4 to 7 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 11 a.m. at Haverstock Funeral Home, followed by a procession to Pine Lake Cemetery for a graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joel's memory can be made to the First United Methodist Church in La Porte or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, honoring his life of service and compassion.

Online condolences may be made at www. haverstockfuneralhome.com.