Mr. Allan Oscar Swenson

Allan "Swede" Oscar Swenson of Miami passed away April 10, 2013, at his daughter Nancy's home in Casselberry, Florida under the care of his two daughters and Hospice of the Comforter. Swede was born in Branford, CT. in 1925 to John Oscar and Julia Larson Swenson. He had one older sister, Agnes, who is survived by her son, Jeff. He was a member of the Tabor Lutheran Church, where he was baptized, confirmed and later married his loving wife, Alice Mae Bedard. Before marrying Alice, he served his country as a member of the National Guard, the Army, and Navy. He made many friends in the service but carried forward a friendship to a business venture, opening Town TV with his good friend and service buddy, John Tyler, in Branford, Connecticut. While in the service, Swede and John were affectionately called the "gold dust twins." Neither of them really knew why, though. He later decided to follow in his father's footsteps into the art of carpentry. An artist he was. His fine craftsmanship can be found in many churches, synagogues, and homes in Miami and Connecticut. While still in Connecticut, he built a home for his wife and had two beautiful children, John and Nancy. He enjoyed time with family and friends, continuing friendships birthed in childhood, such as his life-long friend, Albert Martone and his wife, Doris. In 1965, Swede decided that he had enough of the cold weather and told Alice, "I'm going to Florida. You can come with me or not. It's your choice." Of course, Alice joined him. About a year later Swede and Alice had a little surprise. Their youngest child, Carol was born. He and Alice did their best to raise three pretty good kids. They treated all of them equally and passed down morals and values such love, compassion, honesty, sincerity, strength, courage, and pride, along with a good dose of stubbornness. Swede and Alice supported John, Nancy, and Carol throughout their lives in all of their endeavors. One of Carol’s memories of mom and dad is "we wish you wouldn't do this or we do not agree with this, but how can we support you?" In a flash, but not too soon, the kids were married and brought to him and Alice three wonderful Grandkids, Raquel, Ricky, and Alicia. He now also has two beautiful Great-Grandchildren, Joshua and Victoria. Swede's legacy lives on through each strike of his hammer and stroke of his plane, his family, service buddies, and friends. He has touched us all, and shared his many strengths. He will be lovingly and gratefully missed. Arrangements are entrusted to DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory, 9001 N. Orlando Avenue, Maitland, Florida 32751. (407) 695-CARE(2273).

Mr. Allan Oscar Swenson

October 17, 1925 - April 10, 2013