Daniel E. Swetkovich

PENCE, Wis. - Daniel E. Swetkovich, 76, known to many as "Swek," "Dapper Dan," and "Fergie," passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Dan was born Feb. 9, 1950, in Ironwood, Michigan, and he was raised in-and most recently lived in-Pence, just a short distance from the home of his parents, Verona and Earl Swetkovich, who preceded him in death. Pence was home in the truest sense for Dan: the place he built his life, showed up for his neighbors, and poured his time and energy into the community he loved.

Dan was married to Jan Swetkovich, and they would have celebrated 30 years together next May. He was blessed to have Jan in his life (as were many others that she cared for), and he often let her know by starting off with saying "Hey Hon!" He was previously married to Joan Swetkovich, and they continued to carry on a great friendship. Dan was a proud father to five children: Peter (wife Cassandra), Stacey (husband Jay), Tracy (husband Eric), Emily (Shane), and JJ (Danielle). Dan's greatest joy was his family, and he was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren: Parker and Piper (Peter's children), Kendahl and Gabe (Stacey's children), Alex, Logan, and Kenzie (Tracy's children), and Antonia and Ada (Emily's children). He was also blessed with one great-grandchild, Sloane (Kenzie's daughter, with wife Kaylee). Dan is survived by his siblings Kenny, Cheryl and Carol, and was preceded in death by his brother, Mickey. He also leaves behind his loyal four-legged friend, Chloe.

A graduate of J.E. Murphy (Hurley) High School, Dan spent his working years in construction-both for others and on his own-earning a reputation as someone who knew how to get things done and do them right. Together with Jan, he also owned and operated a plowing business, a commitment that spoke to Dan's hardworking nature and willingness to help keep his community moving through every season.

Dan took tremendous pride in being an umpire for baseball and a referee for basketball. He loved the game, respected the rules, and brought his steady presence to the court and field. He also served as chairman of his community, a role he embraced with real passion and care.

When Dan wasn't working, sports and friendship filled his days. He loved watching the Green Bay Packers-often alongside his best friend, Larry Zanutto-and cheering for his beloved New York Yankees. It was rare to see Dan without a jacket or shirt representing one of his teams. He enjoyed golfing, being with his buddies, and-true to anyone who knew him-telling a story, usually with plenty of detail and a sparkle of humor that made people lean in and listen.

A Celebration of Life and funeral service will be held in the spring/summer, with details to follow.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, Michigan, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.