Joe Andrew Swanson

Joe Andrew Swanson

Services: Monday, Feb. 24, 2 p.m.

Graveside service will be held Monday, February 24, 2003 at 2 p.m. at South Kern Cemetery District for Joe Andrew Swanson Buster who passed away February 20, 2003.

Joe was born in Crowder, Oklahoma on March 27, 1919 to Clyde and Dovie Swanson. He came to Lamont area in 1941. He served his country in WWII in the South Pacific in the infantry of the U.S. Army, earning him the Purple Heart. His career as a derrick man for 35 years was highlighted by his exceptional work ethics and physical ability that is still talked about by those who knew him. His love of kids and playing with them gave great memories to all the nieces, nephews, and grandkids.

Joe was best known for his kind heart and willingness to help others. He was not only a hero for his country but also for his wife for whom he gave constant care for 18 years. His favorite pastime was watching rodeos, westerns and baseball on television, but nothing was as important to him as local fishing trips with family and friends.

Joe is preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Ola Mae Swanson who passed away in 1997. He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Artie and Otis Painter of Strathmore; son and daughter-in-law, Wayne and Linda Swanson; granddaughter, Diana Swanson; grandson and wife Michael and Rebecca Swanson, and step-great-grandson, Blake Givens, all of Bakersfield; and numerous nieces and nephews and friends.

Also missing Joe is his faithful dog Blackie.

Visitation will be held Sunday, February 23, 2003 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Monday, February 24, 2003 from 9 a.m. until noon, at Arvin Funeral Home at 600 Tucker St., Arvin.