Neale E. Swanson, 77, of Fowler, Ind., formerly of Andover, died on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009, at Clarian Arnett Hospital in LaFayette, Ind.

Funeral services were at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 24, at Rux Funeral Home in Galva. The Rev. Linda Winkelman officiated. Visitation was one prior to the services at the funeral home. Burial was in Galva Cemetery. Military rites were accorded by the Galva Fusiliers. 

Memorials may be directed to the Neale Swanson Memorial Fund.

Neale was born July 18, 1931, in Wataga, the son of Chester and Edna (Frampton) Swanson. He married Nadine “Pat” G. Blust on August 23, 1957, in Rock Island. She preceded him in death on January 31, 1995. 

He served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. 

Neale worked as a grounds supervisor for the Rock Island Arsenal until his retirement. 

He shared his retirement with his wife, children and grandchildren. He enjoyed the outdoors and loved his cats. 

Survivors include a daughter, Melody (Chuck) Anderson of Galva; a son, Mark Swanson and special friend, Gail Winchester of Fowler, Ind.; two step-sons, Steve (Sue) Baker of Galesburg and Rick (Vicki) Baker of Pueblo West, Colo.; grandchildren, Craig Anderson, Robyn (Lance) Gentle, Crystal, Andy, Stef, Sara, Aaron (Amy), Adam and Andie Baker, and Abby (Gus) Giadone; great-grandchildren, Caleb Gentle, Marissa, Cody and Chase Casteel, Holden and Gavin Giadone, and Bridgette, Haley and Brayden Baker; three brothers, Rex, Norman and David Swanson; two sisters, Shirley Newburg and Peggy Mahnesmith; a brother-in-law, Charles (Bev) Blust; and two sisters-in-law, Theresa Lindquist and Audrey Blust. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Larry and Marion Swanson.

This obituary may be viewed and private condolences left at www.ruxfuneralhome.com.