Patrick J. Swanton

Patrick John Swanton, 87, quietly went to his Maker in the presence of his family at home in Casper, Wyoming on Wednesday, January 10, 2018.

Born June 28, 1930 in Casper, he was the son of William J. and Nora J. (Tobin) Swanton, Irish immigrants, who were pioneer sheep ranchers in this area. He was the sixth offspring of a family of seven children, all of whom have passed away except the youngest, Donald J. Swanton.

Pat graduated from St. Anthony's School and Natrona County High School. He attended Casper Junior College (3rd floor of N.C.H.S.), Regis College, St. Thomas Seminary and the University of Wyoming. He was a teacher at N.C.H.S. in the Foreign Language and English Department, retiring in 1990.

While totally dedicated to teaching, he was also active in the community and his church. He was Republican precinct committeeman for many years, and he served on the Holy Cross Food Bank board almost from its inception, retiring in 2011. Being an N.C.H.S. graduate, he, along with a number of his classmates, put together many enjoyable reunions throughout the years.

All his life, he was a devoted member of the Catholic Church. Beginning in the 1960s he faithfully served Our Lady of Fatima parish in many ways: as sacristan, choir member, arranging altar server schedules and participating in the Holy Name Society.

In 1964, he married the treasure of his life, Joan Leslie Franson, and they were blessed with three sons: Mike, Jim and Steve. His family, along with his faith, became the most important thing for him. He thoroughly enjoyed celebrating birthdays and seasonal holiday get-togethers with his brothers, sisters and their families. He is survived by his three sons: Rev. Michael Swanton of Columbus, Nebraska; Stephen Swanton of Las Vegas, Nevada; and James (Tricia) Swanton, their two daughters, Kylie and Kennadie of Billings, Montana; brother Donald Swanton of Casper and many nieces and nephews too numerous to mention.

The family will receive guests, starting at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 14 at the Newcomer Casper Chapel, with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. His son, Michael, will celebrate his funeral Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church on Monday, January 15 at 10:30 a.m. A reception will take place immediately after the service at Fatima Hall in the basement of the church. Interment of the cremains will take place on Tuesday, January 16 at 10:00 a.m. at Highland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 1401 CY Ave., Casper, WY 82604; St. Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School, 1125 W. 20th St., Casper, WY 82604; or Holy Cross Center, Inc., 1030 N. Lincoln St., Casper, WY 82601.

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