Richard Dean Swan

Richard Dean Swan passed away at the Claremore Veterans Home in Claremore, OK, on November 11, 2023.  Richard was born on September 9, 1947, in Washington, Iowa, and was the first-born son to Richard Buckles Swan and Martha Naomi (Butcher) Swan. The family moved to Havensville, Kansas in 1950 and lived there until his Senior year of high school.  Richard attended the remainder of high school in Jasper, Indiana, graduating in 1965.  After graduation, he worked for several construction sites as a laborer until he enlisted in the army in 1970. During his enlistment, he served in Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia in the 82nd Airborne. He also volunteered for the “Dust-off” supporting the Fifth Special Forces.  He was so proud to serve his country even when there was no certainty of returning home. 

After serving 3 years in the Army, he enlisted in the Navy.  He was a turbine engine technician and system organizational maintenance technician at the US Naval Station in Guam aboard the USS Ranger. During his service in the Navy, he was awarded the First Navy Good Conduct Award, National Defense Service Metal, Vietnam Service Medal, Expert badge for the M-16 rifle, Vietnam Campaign Medal, M-60 Device, Aircraft Crewman Badge, Overseas Service Bar (2nd award), Air Medal (12), Good Conduct Award (2nd award), Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.

After his military service, he lived in San Antonio, TX for a short while before moving back to Oklahoma to be near his family. After his parents passed away, he resided at the Claremore Veterans Center in Claremore, OK, until his passing.

  Richard was proceeded in death by his parents, Richardand Martha “Naomi” Swan.  He is survived by his brothers,Ronald Louis Swan, Randal Regan Swan, sister-in-law Barbara Swan.  Many nieces and nephews also hold him in the highest regard.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 10AM in the Pawhuska City Cemetery. Interment will follow.

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