Whit Swan

George Whitlock Swan, a great man of integrity, faith, and strength, passed away February 11, 2025, at his home in Blossom. He was born May 19, 1932, in Kaysville, Utah to George William and Norma King Thornley Swan. Whit’s dad passed away when he was 13 years old. He would often share fond memories of his early childhood experiences with his dad, taking care of sheep in the Monte Cristo area. Whit grew up in Kaysville with his brothers Thornley and Bill, and sister Norma Dean. He graduated from Davis High School where he loved sports. 

Whit went to Utah State University earning a degree in Animal Husbandry. As a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity, Whit made many life-long friends.

Whit and Charlene Liljenquist had three children, Sherri, Matt, and Mary Jo. Whit married Loretta Cook, who had a daughter, Paulette. Together their four children were the love of their lives.

Whit was a cattleman and a cowboy, ranching in Utah, Oregon, and Nebraska with the Rocking S brand. He loved the land and his livestock, the sheep and cattle, and of course, his horses and working dogs. He always took great care of them. His work ethic was second to none. In the rodeo world he excelled in calf roping and team roping. 

Education and speaking proper English were important to Whit. He was very well read, memorized poetry, and could still recite many poems by memory.

Whit was loved and respected by all who knew him. He was a man of his word, a direct talker. His sarcasm, wit and wisdom will live on! Everyone was drawn to him, valuing his counsel and advice. Family reunions, phone calls, and visits with extended family were a priority for him. He quietly and generously went about doing good, always blessing lives. 

Family was everything to Whit. He always wanted to know how everyone was and what they were doing. Whit and Loretta’s door was always open, and no one was allowed to go away hungry. Sunday dinner gatherings were important as he wanted to keep the family bonds strong and the relationships close. Dad always seemed to know just what we were capable of and had high expectations, wanting us to be our very best. Their grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought them great joy.

Whit and Loretta’s marriage of 48 years was perfect, their love legendary. They lived life to the fullest, and most importantly, always together, on the ranch, on the road, really everywhere. They were each other’s best friend, sounding board, partners in all endeavors and eternal companions. Their shared faith became the foundation of their marriage.

Whit was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and loved those he served. His love and faith in his Savior Jesus Christ were deep, strong, and abiding. He was steadfast and grounded in the gospel, so committed and always serving. Whit lived a consecrated life, leaving a legacy of conviction and strength, seeking to let God prevail.

Whit is survived by his wife, Loretta, his children, Sherri (Scott), Matt (Jodeen), Mary Jo, and Paulette (Jason); grandchildren, Natalie, Jake, Ike, Abby, James, Steven, Mara, Brooke, Luke, Daniel, and TJ; and 27 great-grandchildren.

Whit was greeted by many loved ones including his sister, Mary Josephine, and Chelsea, and Charlie.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Warren Ward Chapel, 856 North 5900 West. Friends may visit with family on Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church. Interment, Warren/West Warren Cemetery, 750 North 6700 West. Services entrusted to Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary.

(Due to construction, the easiest route from I-15 to the chapel is to take exit 344, Ogden 12th Street, go west about 4 miles to the 4-way stop, turn right onto 4700 West. Go about 3 miles to 1500 North, turn left, and go west to 5900 West, turn left and the chapel will be on your left in less than a mile.) 

In lieu of flowers, please take time to lift or help someone in need. 

Services will be live-streamed and available the day of the services by scrolling to the bottom of Whit’s obituary page at: www.lindquistmortuary.com where condolences may also be shared.

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