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David Swain Obituary
September 20, 1950 - January 27, 2025
Fresno, California - David Swain was born September 20, 1950 in San Luis Obispo, California to Lorna and Irving Swain and passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025 in Fresno, California surrounded by his loving family. Dave was 74 years old.
At an early age the Swain family moved to Modesto, California where Dave developed a love of playing tennis from his father which he passed down to his children and grandchildren. Dave also loved to fly small airplanes. After receiving the gift of flying lessons from his parents, Dave was soon up in the air. He was passionate about flying and proceeded to earn not just a pilot's license, but also his commercial rating.
In the summer of 1966, at a dance in Turlock, California, David met Nancy Colwell. That chance meeting at the age of 15 was the beginning of a wonderful life-long adventure for the two of them.
Dave went on to graduate from UC Berkeley in 1972 and he and Nancy were married in the Colwell's peach orchard between the peppers and tomatoes in her father's garden that same August. Dave and Nancy both went on to graduate school before moving to Fresno in 1974 where Dave began his long career with the Fresno County Office of Education. He loved his work as an Educational Psychologist and later in his career as the Director of Pupil Personnel Services.
Dave is survived by Nancy, his wife of 52 years, their three children, Stacey Williams (Kevin), Scott (Vikki), Erin Noyes (Matt), and their 6 grandchildren, Carter, Cuyler, Tanner, Ellery, Cooper, and Oliver. David is also survived by his sisters, Carole Swain and Linda Wilson.
After retirement, Dave and Nancy enjoyed traveling throughout the world. He loved his tri-weekly golf matches with his golfing buddies, and their frequent golfing trips to Lake Tahoe with hope of striking it rich in the casinos. Dave spent countless hours following the escapades of his grandchildren, specially when tennis was involved. He was a very proud Papa!
Throughout his life, Dave developed many lasting friendships. A celebration of David's life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Coke Hallowell Center, San Joaquin River Parkway 11605 Old Friant Road, Fresno, California.
In remembrance of Dave, the family is requesting donations to be made to the Valley Children's Hospital Foundation or to the charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Swain
Jim and Ana Sherwood
March 6, 2025
Jim and I had the pleasure of living next door to Dave and Nancy at Sumner Hill for many years. We shared many dinners with the Swains and truly enjoyed their friendship. Dave loved his garden and was always out there on his riding mower or checking his vegetables. Dave always enjoyed conversations with our boys even though when we moved in they were young teenagers. Always had some good advice and a great story to tell. Sending our sincerest condolences to Nancy and the entire family. Rest in peace Dave. Jim and Ana Sherwood
Bill Ramsey
March 4, 2025
Buzzing the buoys in Morrow Bay with Irv and Dave in a Cherokee 140 is one of the best memories of my life. I'm flooded with great memories of all of the Swains. Irving ("The King") , Lorna, and David. I will never forget them.
Coby Roberts
February 24, 2025
So sorry to hear the news. Very fond memories of Dave and the good times at Fig Garden. Our thoughts are with Nancy, Stacey, Erin, and Scott.
Coby and Marcie Roberts
Mike and Sally Robinson
February 22, 2025
Dave had an extraordinary life. He loved his family and friends, and he was loved by all. We will cherish our times together and will miss cards game, good food and a bottle of wine with him.
Rosa forlinesj
February 21, 2025
Great memories.of our ti.es at Sumner hill we were all one big family such a rare finding
He will remain in our hearts forever go plY golf.with lelon in heaven
Terry Ogden
February 21, 2025
I worked with Dave at FCOE from 2001-2004. He and I were both 1972 Cal grads. He always had a bet going for the Big Game with another psychologist who went to Stanford.
Becky and Brian Decker
February 18, 2025
Dave was always full of life and fun. We pray that his big personality, and love for his friends and family, will provide peace and lots of wonderful memories.
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