GLOUCESTER: Robert J. Swinson, Jr., 58, died unexpectedly Thursday, April 21, 2011 in the Massachusetts General Hospital.
Born in Gloucester on July 24, 1952, he was the son of Marie V. (Duchane) Swinson and the late Robert J. Swinson. He was a graduate of the Gloucester High School class of 1970.
A U.S. Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War, he enlisted in 1971 and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan fueling planes. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant in October of 1975.
He was employed as a truck driver for many years with the Ipswich Shellfish Company and Ipswich Maritime delivering fish products all over New England. He then worked as a truck driver and laborer for the Town of Ipswich, where he developed a large network of friends.
Bob loved listening to his music, playing softball in the Ipswich Softball League and golfing. He also enjoyed fishing with his brother and friends. An avid Boston sports fan, he was thrilled to see his teams win world championships.
He was a loving and devoted son and brother. He loved spending time with his niece and nephew and was affectionately known as Uncle Buck to them. His sense of humor and quick wit will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brother, Gregory Swinson, longtime companion of Andrea Moore; sister, Marcia, wife of Richard Jansson; niece and nephew, Elise and Benjamin Jansson, two aunts, Barbara, wife of Charles DeCoste and Roseann Duchane; and many cousins. He was also predeceased by his uncle, Paul Duchane.
His funeral service will be held on Tuesday morning in the Pike-Grondin Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester at 11 a.m. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 – 11 a.m. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy made to the Cape Ann Food Pantry/Open Door, 28 Emerson Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930. Interment will be held in the Seaside Cemetery, Lanesville.